Theater Review – July 1, 2026

“BEAUTY AND THE BEAST” BRINGS THE FAMILIAR TALE TO VIBRANT LIFE

“Beauty and the Beast”
Broadway Across America – Arizona, ASU Gammage
Tempe, AZ

By Chris Curcio
Theater Critic

As one who saw the original Broadway version of “Beauty and the Beast,” I approached the latest touring production at ASU Gammage with a tad of skepticism.  Could a new staging all these years after the 1994 New York presentation still bring Disney’s romantic fairytale alive?

The production turned out to be a fine representation of the well-known tale and while not quite as elaborate scenically as the original, the staging introduced a few minor changes in the story that make it a bit more contemporary.  All told, this “Beauty and the Beast” is still a richly rewarding and musically effervescent fantasy.

First a disclaimer.  This review is based only on the first act as stomach upset caused my departure at the intermission.  My astute companion stayed and voiced strong positive views of the second act which enable me to review the entire production.

The plot turns out just as everyone knows but over-the-top costumes still bring the storybook characters to virtual life.  Matt West’s bold staging and flashy dances keep the show moving along briskly and performers who believe in their one-dimensional characters are all top-notch as they bring Belle’s awakening of the Beast into a dashing romantic lead with winning perfection.  A well-microphoned orchestra plays Alan Menken’s lively score with spirited aplomb as the cast brings exciting energy to every story detail.

There weren’t any surprises but for young theatergoers who haven’t experienced the tale before, the production sparks theatrical excitement and the capacity opening night audience went crazy throughout the production as they delivered several standing ovations.

A few critical comments.  Kyra Belle Johnson’s Belle seemed a bit too old but she sang with precision and brought great charm to the character.  Fergie L. Philippe transformed into a dashing Beast and Stephen Mark Lukas was an appropriately arrogant Gaston.  A nice touch was using an Angela Lansbury recording to recite the show’s prologue, a homage to her participation in the original film plus her prestigious stage and movie career.

The settings used many projections, a change that added much flamboyant color to the proceedings but the narrow proscenium opening made some important portions of the show’s action hard if not impossible to see.

This new take on the familiar “Beauty and the Beast” brings the time-honored classic back in a big splashy production that should be enjoyed by all who attend.  Word is that tickets are scarce for the remainder of the run which continues to Friday, July 3.  To order tickets, call the ASU Gammage box office at 480-965-3434 or order tickets online at www.asugammage.com.

Grade: A