It’s a tale as old as time and when 2023 rolls around, Sydneysiders will be the first to experience the glorious Beauty and the Beast Musical. In a major coup for the arts industry, the harbour city has managed to score the Australian premiere for the mega West End hit. The new production will open at the Capitol Theatre from June 2023. There’s no news yet on whether this will come to Gold Coast or nearby, so you might want to start booking flights if you’re a big fan.
Beauty and the Beast Musical
In exciting news, the creative team behind the original will return for this reimagined production. Matt West will be at the helm directing and choreographing. Composer Alan Menken, lyricist Tim Rice and costume designer Ann Hould-Ward will band together for a spectacular show. Get ready to sing along to fan favourite tunes like ‘Be Our Guest’ and ‘Beauty and the Beast’.
Beauty and the Beast has arguably been Disney’s most successful musical playing in thirteen countries and 115 cities since its premiere on Broadway in 1994. Come winter next year, Sydneysiders will be invited to be their guest as Australia finally gets a taste of the magic.
If you’re unfamiliar with the story, it follows the tale of a young woman named Belle, and an unkind prince who is transformed into a fearsome Beast. In order to be free from the spell, a woman must fall in love with the Beast before the last petal of a rose falls. When the Beast imprisons Belle’s father in his castle for trespassing, Belle volunteers to take his place, and discovers that the castle is filled with enchanted, talking objects. Over time, their bond grows deeper, but will Belle fall in love with the Beast before time runs out?
The Australian cast for the show is yet to be revealed although the hunt for Belle and the Beast is on. Keep your eyes peeled on their official website for further updates.
Beauty and the Beast will be produced in Australia by The Walt Disney Company and Disney Theatrical Productions, under the supervision of Thomas Schumacher.