"Beauty and the Beast" - a triumph of talent and passion

With Director Amanda Foust and choreographer Ashley Mouw at the helm, the Niwot High School's "Beauty and the Beast" cast delivered mesmerizing performances March 9, 10 and 11, that dazzled with color, movement, and passion.

The costumes were a feast for the eyes. From the fantastical enchanted objects to the striking and complex Beast costume, every element of attire was crafted with meticulous attention to detail. And the sets were no less impressive, transporting the audience with seamless grace into the realm of the story. The lighting design was the perfect complement, infusing the stage with an atmosphere of wonder.

"Beauty and the Beast" is more than just a story. It is a tale that has tugged at the heartstrings of audiences worldwide for centuries beginning with Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve's original tale, published in 1740. This timeless story resonates with people from all walks of life, with its message of finding beauty beyond the surface and embracing the goodness within.

Niwot High School's recent performance of the beloved classic was nothing short of spectacular, a testament to the hard work and talent of the performers.

The show reached a crescendo during the "Be Our Guest" musical number, where an unforgettable dance sequence captivated the audience.The performers' coordination and synchronization were flawless, a true testament to their talent and hard work. As the dancers moved with precision and grace, the stage was electrified with energy and enthusiasm, an infectious spirit that spread throughout the audience and left patrons in a state of sheer amazement.

Sophie Arnett-Simon who played Babette, was thrilled with the audience's reaction to her tango and expressed her gratitude. When asked what the most memorable moment of her performance was, she stated, "I mean honestly my tango, but it was also a really great surprise to come out on stage at the end of the show tonight and everyone was cheering for me. So I felt very loved."

Henry Stauch, playing the Beast, delivered a captivating portrayal of the character's struggles and loneliness, while Juliette Molina's authentic portrayal of Belle's fierce independence and strong-willed nature was delightful. Her voice left the audience in awe.

The impressive performances in "Beauty and the Beast" were not limited to the leading actors, as the supporting cast also displayed their remarkable talents. Jaedyn Adler, as Gaston, was a master of both charisma and arrogance, providing a lighthearted interlude alongside LeFou, played by Audrey Asbury.

Meanwhile, the ensemble cast members brought joy and lightness to the show in their portrayal of various enchanted objects, displaying powerful vocal performances that added an extra layer of magic to the already enchanting production.

Despite the physical limitations of their costumes, the cast demonstrated remarkable adaptability and thrived on stage. In particular, Adler, who also plays baseball at Niwot, stood out for his ability to turn his physique into a comedic tool. During the final fight scene between Gaston and the Beast, Adler delighted the audience with push-ups that were as humorous as they were impressive. And in the comical bench scene with Molina's Belle, he continued to demonstrate his creativity and dedication, holding himself up by his arms on a bench while delivering his lines with impeccable timing.

The success of the show depended on the collective effort of everyone, as Aiden Sagner, who played Maurice, recalled the challenges of coordinating oversized props during memorable costume fittings. "I loved when we first got costumes and everybody trying to figure out how to coordinate themselves with these giant plates, or giant napkins, or constantly bumping into each other in the halls, or scraping them on the roof, was really enjoyable on how to figure out how to work around those," he said.

Among the production's many standout props, the motorized wood chopper that Sagner rode was a particular highlight. With its realistic appearance, creative design, and comedic value, it added a unique and impressive element to the show.

The production of "Beauty and the Beast'' was a testament to the power of collaboration and camaraderie. Rori Ann Barchers, who played Madame De La Grande Bouche, said, "I honestly just loved all the moments backstage with everyone. We always have such a blast whether it's getting food or rehearsing. And the wolf scene is really fun to watch, the whole experience has been so fun." Her enthusiasm was shared by the rest of the cast, who enjoyed each other's company and the camaraderie that developed during the months of rehearsals.

"Beauty and the Beast" was a true celebration of the performing arts and a tribute to the dedication and tireless efforts of those involved, from the passionate performances of the cast to the awe-inspiring set design, and the orchestra. Whether part of the cast and crew or simply an audience member, everyone who was able to attend "Beauty and the Beast" was left with happy, lasting memories.