Disney’s Beauty And The Beast At The Little Theatre Leicester Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Katy Nettleton
A Night of Enchantment and Brilliance!
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, performed at The Little Theatre Leicester, was nothing short of mesmerising. From the moment the curtains opened it became evident that the production was on par with any professional show. A night of pure theatrical magic unfolded, full of vibrant choreography, stunning visuals, and a story that effortlessly tugged at the heartstrings. This was a show that sparkled in every aspect, making it a must-see for anyone lucky enough to grab a ticket.
The production creatively used videos and curtains to transform the traditional theatre setting into something that felt cinematic. This immersive approach gave the performance a rich, multi-layered atmosphere that drew the audience into the story from the start. It was a clever blend of stagecraft and film-like storytelling which added a unique dimension to the classic tale. At times, you felt as though you were watching a grand movie unfold before your eyes.
Rose Bale’s portrayal of Belle was truly the heart of the production. Her voice was enchanting, effortlessly capturing the vulnerability, strength, and kindness that defines Belle. There were several “goosebump moments” as she delivered songs with such emotion that they resonated deeply with the audience. Her rendition of “A Change in Me” was particularly moving, leaving many of us in awe of her vocal range and emotional depth.
Opposite her, Keiran Whelan-Newby as the Beast delivered a performance full of intensity and heart. His portrayal masterfully captured the character’s inner turmoil, blending ferocity with vulnerability. The emotional power of “If I Can’t Love Her,” which closed Act One, was palpable, and the audience sat transfixed as Whelan-Newby’s voice echoed through the theatre. The music and lighting during the castle scenes, in particular, created a chilling atmosphere that intensified the Beast’s inner struggles.
Gaston, played by Vaughan Barton-Ashcroft, was the perfect embodiment of the Disney villain. His swagger, arrogance, and charm made him a character you loved to hate. The chemistry between Gaston and his sidekick Lefou (Matt Barton-Ashcroft) was brilliant. Lefou’s humour added a delightful lightness to the darker scenes, with Matt’s impeccable comic timing elevating each moment. Their interactions had the audience in stitches, providing a perfect contrast to the more heartfelt moments of the show.
Simon Butler’s portrayal of Lumiere was as captivating as expected. His French accent was unwavering, and his performance of “Be Our Guest” was a visual and auditory treat. Lumiere’s charm and warmth shone through, making him an instant audience favourite. Alongside him, Hollie Longley-Wilford as Chip was utterly adorable, bringing the cheeky charm of the character to life with such ease.
The staging of the production was nothing short of impressive. The castle scenes were visually stunning, with a perfect blend of lighting and music that made you feel the cold, dark atmosphere of the Beast’s world. The band deserves a special mention as well; they played the beloved Disney scores with such energy and precision that every song felt larger than life.
The show was packed with all the classic songs we know and love, from “Belle” to “Be Our Guest,” and it’s safe to say that I was humming along all the way home. This production, while rooted in the well-loved Disney classic, had its own magical flair, keeping the audience completely captivated.
In summary, Beauty and the Beast at The Little Theatre Leicester is a triumph, 5 out of 5. From the breath taking performances to the immersive staging and live music, this is a production that transcends its amateur status and is worthy of a sell-out run. With a limited run from 17-21 September, I can only urge you to grab a ticket before it’s too late. Five stars out of five – an enchanting, must-see show for all ages!
Rating: 5/5
Tickets are available from The Little Theatre website or by calling the box office on 0116 255 1302.
https://thelittletheatre.co.uk/whats-on/beauty-and-the-beast/