Belle has always been one of Channing’s favorite princesses. She gravitated toward her at an early age and has never wavered. I’d like to think it’s because Belle is an avid reader and looks for the good in everyone, but really I think she just loves her yellow dress.
While on our #DisneySMMC trip we found out Disney Cruise Line has created a state-of-the-art live stage version of Beauty and The Beast on board the Disney Dream. So naturally we immediately put it down as a priority during our stay. It did not disappoint.
Pro Tip: Show up early to get a good seat. This show will fill up quickly and once the seats are gone, they’re gone! There are 1,340 seats in the Walt Disney Theater but there are 2,500 passengers on the ship.
This tale as old as time is a brand-new musical production inspired by Disney’s live-action adaptation of the animated classic. The show expands upon the most imaginative elements of the highly anticipated live-action and classic films to delight Disney Cruise Line guests aboard the Disney Dream.
An innovative take on the story transforms renowned songs into spectacular, show-stopping numbers, and lavish costumes and puppetry bring a fresh perspective to beloved characters. Set designer, Jason Sherwood (“Paint Your Wagon,” “Frozen, A Musical Spectacular”), worked in concert with video designer, Aaron Rhyne (“Frozen, A Musical Spectacular,” Broadway’s “Anastasia”), to create a transforming set that takes audiences on a magical journey through the music box, from Belle’s provincial French town to the Beast’s mysterious castle.
To bring “Beauty and the Beast” to the stage, Disney assembled an all-star creative team, led by director and choreographer Connor Gallagher (“Tangled: The Musical,” “Found”). Gallagher collaborated with writer Sara Wordsworth (“Frozen, A Musical Spectacular,” Broadway’s “In Transit”) and a talented collection of Broadway artists to create an imaginative, new approach to this iconic story.
We were transfixed from the first moment the curtains went up. This show moves quickly as it’s only an hour long. So the dialogue is effective and straight to the point but definitely not lacking in heart. They use all the same songs from the film so you will find yourself singing along. As an actor I always watch the performances closely and I can tell you, that’s some Broadway caliber acting going on. These actors are bringing you Disney Magic while the ship sways back and forth. I don’t know if I could do that!
People would pay hundreds of dollars a ticket to watch this kind of show on Broadway and it’s included in your ticket to sail. If you’re booked on the Disney Dream, make sure you don’t miss Beauty and The Beast. Or the only tale as old as time you’ll be telling, is how you missed out on a great show.
*Disclaimer: I was compensated or given product in exchange for my honest review of this show. For more information please visit my disclaimers page.