Beauty and the Beast Jr. is the perfect show for two nerdy book girls to direct. The prospect of building the library of our dreams alone was enough to get us excited. However, this show is so much more than a bunch of books.
As we began the rehearsal process, we spent a lot of time with the cast focusing on finding "the moment" in each scene or song. Truly, this show is its own living, breathing entity full of moments of choice strung together. Our cast is the storyteller enchanting our audiences with a tale that includes far off places, daring sword fights, magic spells and a prince in disguise! We begin with the long forgotten life of a man transformed into the beast he was within. What follows are the many, many moments that show who our characters really are, what they want most in this world, and that kindness and understanding can change some of the darkest of hearts.
One of the best parts of this show is that each of us can identify with so many of the characters. We have all been Belle feeling out of place, Cogsworth full of anxiety about the future, Lefou deeply desiring to be liked by others, and Beast filled with dread that we are not deserving of love. If you look hard enough, you can find a reflection of yourself in one or more of the characters in our story.
Our cast has worked incredibly hard to bring this story to life with deep meaning and love. They have been brave enough to try anything we have thrown at them while learning to listen and support each other. We are truly so proud of the storyteller they have become together. We hope you find the spark and enjoy this fantastic show.
-Sarah and Alicia
"Special thanks to Exeter Theater for lending the fireplace!"
