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It is a fairytale as old as time and has inspired endless interpretations. But I have to say, I think last night’s Phoenix Youth Theatre adaptation of the Broadway Disney musical Beauty and the Beast was one of my favourites. Filled with humour, talent, sweeping music and glamorous costumes, the production was a magical one.

However it was not me the cast needed to win over, it was my Belle-loving seven-year-old niece. Beauty and the Beast from Phoenix Youth Theatre made me feel Human Again For those who have been living under a fairytale-less rock, the story follows a young book-loving beauty called Belle played by the very talented Nicole Stuart. When her innocent eccentric father (Finn McKenzie) gets lost in the woods and takes shelter in a castle, he comes across a staff of talking objects all under a spell and a Beast (Finlay Gray) who locks him up before Belle offers to take his place.



It is a tale filled with memorable characters, comedic duos and addictive tunes and Phoenix Youth Theatre pulled it off fabulously. Nicole as Belle was a delight to watch. The actor portrayed a compassionate and brilliant version of the young beauty and had an incredible voice.

Alongside her was Finlay, and who portrayed a convincing moody but endearing prince. Hilarious antics from the manly Gaston I was already giggling at our first glance at the manly and tall Gaston (Gregor Watson) and his “muscles”. Rarely seen without his cheeky right-hand man Lefou (Struan McGurran), the pair.

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