A tale as old as time will be arriving at Iva Walker Auditorium this month, complete with timeless numbers including “Be Our Guest,” “Home,” and “Belle.” Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” has become a classic in the musical theater songbook, telling the story of an intelligent, elegant young woman who finds herself imprisoned by a hideous Beast in an enchanted castle. Despite her fears, she befriends the castle’s charming staff and learns to look beyond the Beast’s ghastly appearance and recognize the compassionate soul of the true Prince within.
James A. Garfield’s production will be accompanied by a live orchestra playing the Academy Award-winning score for ‘Best Original Score’ and ‘Best Song.’ The actors have worked relentlessly for the past ten weeks, perfecting each line and choreographed step to bring the audience into Disney’s nostalgic and timeless provincial French village.
Prior to opening night, I had the pleasure of discussing the production with the actress portraying the role of Belle, Hallie Cebulla. Her voice brings chills by filling all four corners of a room while at the same time making you feel a sense of warmth. Cebulla’s experience with musical theater dates years before this performance. Her love for music and Disney has been imposed upon her since she was an infant, and she hopes always to keep a strong relationship. With less than two weeks until opening night, Cebulla feels anxious to live up to the expectations of the audience to portray such an iconic character; however, she is confident in herself and her performance.
In JAG’s last year’s production of “Into the Woods,” Cebulla was cast as the Baker’s Wife, a similar role to Belle, a young woman with ambition and independence. Cebulla always tries to put herself in the headspace of her role. In doing so, she connects with Belle and even sees herself in the character. Unlike last year, which appeared to be a challenging show for all parties involved, Beauty and the Beast has been a pleasure to be a part of for Cebulla as it had always been one of her favorites.
When asked what her favorite aspect of playing Belle is, she replied, “There’s never a dull moment; she adores singing ‘Home.’” With many musical adaptations, additional tracks are inserted into the show to bring new life and diversity. ‘Home’ is sung as a solo by Belle as she laments about the loss of her father and her previous life in the village; it is one of the most heartbreaking moments in the show.
Cebulla advises any young individual involved in musical theater: “Even if you’re not particularly content with your role, remember it’s seldom about the part you play but more about the connections and relationships you create with other people.”
The James A. Garfield High School production of “Beauty and the Beast” will take place on March 14th and 15th at 7 pm and 16th at 2 and 7 pm, respectively. Due to anticipated sales, tickets are encouraged to be purchased before the night of the show; however, seats may be purchased at the door. To acquire tickets online, visit showtix4u.com and search “JAG Musical Theatre.” Prices for adults are $12.00, and for students and senior citizens are $6.00. Additional fundraisers to support the theater are a 50/50 raffle and Silent Auction; real and fake roses will also be available for purchase at the door for $5.00 each. Supporting the Arts helps fund kid’s creativity and set them up for future success.
