A Magical Journey: ‘Beauty and the Beast’ North American Tour Review
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast has a way of enchanting audiences in a way few stories can. Whether you grew up with the iconic animated film or are encountering the tale for the first time, this North American Tour production brings all the magic, wonder, and heart that have made the story beloved across generations. With an exceptional cast leading the way, it’s a mesmerizing theatrical experience that transports you into a world where fairy tales come to life right before your eyes.
[Warning: spoilers from the North American Tour of Beauty and the Beast are below!]
The true beauty comes Belle and the Beast in this Disney musical
At the heart of this production is the cast—an ensemble that breathes new life into the timeless characters, from the enchanting Belle to the imposing yet vulnerable Beast, and the charismatic but utterly detestable Gaston. The magic starts as soon as the curtain rises, and each performer brings something special to the stage, creating a journey that is as enchanting as it is unforgettable.
The role of Belle is one of the most iconic Disney characters of all time, and Kyra Belle Johnson seems to have been born for the role. She radiates warmth, intelligence, and strength, effortlessly embodying the character’s longing for something more than the life she knows in her provincial town. Her voice, clear and soaring, fills the theater with every note, especially during showstoppers like “Belle” and “A Change in Me.” This Belle isn’t just beautiful on the outside; she’s fiercely independent and deeply empathetic, qualities that make her both relatable and inspiring. An added detail: Belle with glasses was a crowd favorite; everyone loved it!
The Beast, played with both raw emotion and impressive vocal power, is the perfect counterpart. From his imposing presence to his more tender moments, Fergie L. Philippe skillfully navigates the character’s transformation from a fearsome, isolated figure to a vulnerable, loving prince. The chemistry between Belle and the Beast is often broken up by humor in the writing, which seems well-received by the audience. Together, they deliver one of the most poignant love stories ever told, with the emotional weight of “If I Can’t Love Her” and the magical romance of “Beauty and the Beast” tugging at the hearts of every audience member.
The supporting cast elevates Beauty and the Beast
Of course, no story of Beauty and the Beast would be complete without the unforgettable supporting characters, and this production delivers a stellar cast to bring them to life. Lumière, the ever-charming maître d’, is played with allure and enthusiasm by Danny Gardner whose energy is infectious. Lumière’s exuberant nature, combined with his smooth moves and French accent, creates an air of whimsy that contrasts beautifully with the darker elements of the story. His rendition of “Be Our Guest” is a showstopper that will leave you tapping your feet and smiling from ear to ear.
On the opposite end of the spectrum is Cogsworth (Javier Ignacio), the comically uptight clock, whose interactions with Lumière provide much-needed levity throughout the show. Played with perfect comedic timing, this character brings balance to the more serious moments with his wonderfully awkward humor. His banter with Lumière is one of the show’s highlights, and their friendship is as endearing as it is entertaining.
Then there’s Mrs. Potts, the warm-hearted teapot whose voice and maternal instincts are truly heartwarming. Her rendition of “Beauty and the Beast” is as emotional as it is iconic. Kathy Voytko infuses the role with just the right amount of motherly love and care, ensuring that the scene feels as magical as it does sentimental. Each of these supporting characters—Featherduster, Babette (Cameron Monroe Thomas), and the rest of the enchanted staff—adds their own bit of charm and humor, making them more than just background players. Together, they create a family-like dynamic that elevates the entire production.
And of course, we cannot forget Gaston—the quintessential villain whose over-the-top arrogance and menacing nature make him a standout character in the musical. Stepping in, understudy Benjamin Cheng brings a wonderful level of bravado to the role, effortlessly gliding through the larger-than-life numbers, such as “Gaston” and “The Mob Song.” His voice is strong and commanding, while his physical presence fills the stage with confidence. Gaston’s blind self-assurance and entitlement are as infuriating as they are entertaining, and his moments with LeFou (played by Harry Francis) provide a delightful contrast to the more serious moments of the show.
Beauty and the Beast is a feast for the eyes and ears
Beyond the performances, this production dazzles with its stunning set design, costumes, and choreography. The enchanted castle is brought to life with elaborate details, from the towering walls to the intricate moving parts that give the illusion of a magical world. The ballroom scene, in particular, is a breathtaking moment, with its flowing gowns and twinkling chandeliers creating an atmosphere of pure enchantment.
The costumes add another layer of magic, from Belle’s iconic yellow ball gown to the elaborate designs of the enchanted objects. Each character’s look is not just a costume, but a reflection of their personalities—whether it’s Lumière’s suave ensemble or Cogsworth’s rigid, formal attire. Every detail helps to pull you deeper into this fantastical world.
The music, of course, is what ties everything together. Alan Menken’s score is as iconic as the story itself, and the live orchestra does justice to the songs that have become classics over the years. From the joyful exuberance of “Be Our Guest” to the tender beauty of “Beauty and the Beast,” the music swells with emotion, adding depth to every scene.
A few things to note about the overall experience itself: although based on the Disney movie, it is a full-blown musical with a runtime of approximately 2.5 hours. As expected, about halfway through Act One, most of the kiddos in my surrounding area were ready to go home. I encourage parents to evaluate if their child can sit for this long, particularly for an evening performance. With that being said, I also encourage surrounding attendees to have patience; this show is geared towards young people, which sometimes means dealing with whispers or small distractions. If you truly feel that your experience is being severely disrupted, please speak to a staff member at intermission so they can address the situation appropriately.
A Truly Timeless Experience
In the end, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast is a show that transcends time, offering something for everyone—whether you’re a longtime fan of the story or experiencing it for the first time. With a talented cast that brings each character the depth and warmth they deserve, stunning visuals, and unforgettable music, this production is a testament to why the story has endured for decades. It’s a magical, heartwarming experience that will leave you with a smile on your face and a song in your heart. Don’t miss your chance to be swept away into this enchanting world where true beauty lies within—and where the magic of live theater makes dreams come true.
Beauty and the Beast runs at The Fisher Theatre now through October 12! Look out for the North American touring production, arriving in a city near you! Are you catching this Disney musical while it’s here in Detroit? Let us know on social media @BoxSeatBabes!
Exclusive Interview: Harry Francis of Beauty and the Beast
