A Joyous Blast of Theatrical Exuberance (Broadway in Louisville)

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast

Book by Linda Woolverton

Music by Alan Menken

Lyrics by Howard Ashman and Tim Rice

A Review by Regina Harris

Entire contents are copyright © 2026 Regina Harris. All Rights Reserved

Disney magic filled the air Tuesday night as Kentucky Performing Arts presented newly reimagined stage tour of Beauty and the Beast to a spellbound crowd. This refreshed production delivers a visual spectacle that bridges generations, thrilling longtime fans while welcoming an audience experiencing the beloved tale live for the first time. Judging by the number of costumes in the crowd, the anticipation was real. Arriving dressed as the story’s characters, adults and children alike eagerly connected with the magic.

This classic tale, a vain and heartless prince is transformed into a fearsome beast after turning away a stranger in need. Only by learning compassion-and earning the love of another-can the spell be broken. When the intelligent, courageous, and kindhearted Belle enters his world, both begin a journey of transformation that lies at the heart of Beauty and the Beast. The touring cast brought this beloved story vividly to life. From the principal roles to the lively ensemble, the stage pulsed with animated performances and infectious energy that kept the audience fully engaged.

Broadway veteran Fergie L. Philippe delivered a commanding performance as the Beast. With his imposing height and resonant booming voice, Phillippe created a creature that was genuinely intimidating. Yet he handled his gradual transformation from raging monster to awkward, eager-to-please suitor with remarkable physical dexterity and emotional warmth, making the Beast’s redemption both believable and charming.

As the swaggering villain Gaston, Caleb McArthur’s confident physicality, graceful dance technique and exaggerated machismo made Gaston both ridiculous and oddly charismatic. Opposite him, Harry Francis brought a delightful clownish energy to the role of LeFou. Their partnership generated some of the evening's biggest laughs, thanks to expertly timed slapstick and gleefully exaggerated physical comedy.

Meanwhile, the enchanted castle staff added their own layers of humor and warmth. Kevin Ligon sparkled as the flamboyant Lumiére, delivering the role with mischievous charm and playful sophistication. Paired with Cameron Monroe Thomas as Babette the flirtatious maid, double entendres and physical gags drew frequent giggles from the crowd.

At the heart of the production, Kyra Belle Johnson anchored the production with warmth, intelligence, and a luminous stage presence. Her clear, angelic singing voice soared effortlessly, while Johnson captured Belle's independence perfectly. Her performance was the emotional heart of the show.

In a joyous blast of theatrical exuberance, the large musical numbers were a whirlwind of Busby Berkeley kaleidoscopic choreography, blended with the glittering precision of the Ziegfeld Follies, mixed with a dash of Radio City Music Hall high-kicking flair. It was a sensory feast.

Technically, the production proved impressive throughout. Sound design was particularly strong, as both orchestra and vocals resonated clearly across Whitney Hall. The lighting design was striking and imaginative (though at times a touch overzealous, with a few sequences featuring especially intense effects that audience members sensitive to flashing lights may want to be aware of.) Clever use of projection screens evoked the forest and the Beast’s castle, as well as adding deep visual atmosphere to the streamlined set design.

And the costumes! While Belle and the Beast’s costumes are traditional, the updated designs surrounding them are resplendent. Bright jewel tones, opulent fabrics, and copious amounts of sequins give the production a bedazzling contemporary sparkle.

Judging by the delighted audience, this tale as old as time still casts a powerful spell-so come be our guest!

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast

March 10, 11, 12, 13 @ 7:00 PM

March 14 at 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM

March 15 at 1:00 PM and 6:30 PM

Kentucky Performing Arts

501 W. Main St.

Louisville, KY 40202

502.584.7777

www.KentuckyPerformingArts.org