Beauty and The Beast at Playlovers (Regal Theatre)
Fri, 12 Sept 2008, 12:01 pmAsta93 posts in thread
Beauty and The Beast at Playlovers (Regal Theatre)
Fri, 12 Sept 2008, 12:01 pmWednesday afternoon...I'm just about to leave work boasting to everyone that tonight I'm off to go watch the opening night of Beauty and the Beast. "Ha ha ha!" I say to everyone as I smugly leave my office boasting that my night is going to be markably more entertaining than anything they are likely to do...then my phone rings.
ABSOLUTELY SHATTERED!!! I'm sure my situation was not the only one on that Wednesday afternoon. I heard of some people who didn't even get a phone call from Ticketek to tell them the shows opening night had been cancelled. Opening night cancelled??? How could that possibly happen? But thankfully I was able to switch my tickets for Thursday night and can I say first of all WOW!!! So let's not dwell on why the show had to wait a day to open and rather focus on the show.
First of all the highly debated sets and costumes. These were wonderful and in a show like Beauty and the Beast it is really essential for these to be of the standard they were. When the castle was first revealed on stage there was a roar of applause from the audience as they felt truely overwhelmed by the sheer size and effectiveness of the set. The costumes as well were an absolute delight. I was reading in the West Australian that they had a former professional costumer working with the Playlovers production (please correct me if I'm wrong) and can I say it truely paid off. I was concerned about being able to see the emotion of the Beast (after all he is in a very heavy mask) but the actors commitment to the character and the freedom of the costume allowed for all this to still come through.
The music was amazingly overwhelming. Very powerful and of an incredibly high standard. Craig Dalton (surprisingly young looking in such a huge role as musical director) is to be commended on his ability to direct such a fantastically beautiful piece of music for Perth audience.
Without a doubt my favourite part of this show was "Be Our Guest" and really was a chance for the cast to show off their skills and the beautiful costumes. A good strong dancing chorus of both males and females. The plates were girlishly cutesy, with a real playful charm. I can't even imagine trying to dance with something that big attatched to my back (wonderful job girls). The other dancing girls - not sure what they were meant to be - were a little bit more 'grown-up' compared to the plate girls. Beautiful high kicks and well executed partnership dancing. It was a nice difference between the two 'characters' of the female ensemble and gave them something to set them apart and gave them more of a personal character.
The male ensemble was amazing. How Playlovers got so many boys to not only appear on stage but also dance is beyond me. They were wonderfully energetic and performed as individual characters not as one solid group which was particularly effective in their performance of "Gaston" (another of my favourites). I must say I haven't enjoyed drunken men dancing ever before in my life but then these men could actually dance whereas those I meet on a Saturday night more wiggle...anyway I loved it!
Now onto the leads. A wonderful leading cast with some truely standout performance. The BIG standouts were:
Jen Godleman as Belle
Beautiful voice and very convincing character. She seemed a little nervous to begin with and some lines were dropped but not so much that it was distracting. Nerves are a part of opening night and she did a wodnerful job.
Craig Menner as the Beast
What a voice!!! "If I can't love her" was truely amazing. He had an amazing acting range, from being frighteningly scary to being kindhearted and gentle. Amazing actor. I especially liked his excitement as Belle read him the story of King Arthur. Very cute.
Kim Godleman as Lumiere
An absolute delight to watch. The physicality he portrayed was wonderful and the chemistry between him and Babette was very cute and believable to watch. Wonderfull performance.
Hayley Mayne, Genevieve Newman and Kylie Baker as the silly girls
These three girls stole the show everytime they were on stage. Absolutely adorable to watch and very very funny.
The entire cast and crew should be commeneded on this production. After months of bitching, whinging, complaining, disasters, triumphs and enjoyment the show finally went on and it was FANTASTIC!!! Good luck for the rest of the production and I will definetly be spending $60 to go see it again.
Walter PlingeFri, 19 Sept 2008, 11:27 am
In Wolf defence...
As one of the aforementioned wolves... may I say that in our defence DazzaB...Wolves are pack hunting animals... That is why we approach Belle from stage left rather then from different directions!
You wondered why Belle didn't run away because of this? hmmmm probably because this is "acting" and not real life!? If you are going to question this are you going to question how a tea pot could have given birth to a tea cup? Or that the prince was only 11 years old when he was put under the spell?
I know its only your "opinion" but one can't help but laugh at the way some people think... and then they put it in writing... on the web!
maljoFri, 19 Sept 2008, 02:08 pm
Thin Skinned Wolf?
Dear No 2, Dazza's comments were well thought out, constructive and contained within one of the better written "critiques" that I have read on this web site. If you are so thin skinned that you cannot take constructive criticism then methinks you have the wrong hobby!
By way of interest, a teapot didn't give birth to a tea cup. Mrs Potts gave birth to a boy and they both changed under the spell cast upon the Prince. The Princes age has nothing to do with either the story or the moral that it delivers. I suggest you ask Sue to explain it to you if you stil have trouble comprehending!
Walter PlingeFri, 19 Sept 2008, 02:20 pm
Beauty and the beast
Woah... guys!
what is the matter with you all... In the world of theatre, if a criticism is given with all respect like i believe Darren's was, it should be taken lightly and processed not immediately pounced on. WE CAN ALWAYS LEARN MORE!!! no matter how good you are... its called growth...so lets just be respectful of each other and each others work!
I havent seen the playlovers version yet so i can not comment but i had the priveledge of seeing the MPAC version and loved it... lets just play nice children :)
DazzaBFri, 19 Sept 2008, 02:31 pm
Oops!
I did write a response, but then I thought better of it, but I accidentally hit the "post comment" button by mistake. So now, thanks to the edit feature of this site, all we have is me making an apology for my poor mouse clicking skills ;)
DazzaB
"Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep." Scott Adams
Walter PlingeFri, 19 Sept 2008, 03:03 pm
Errm ... ok
Dear Maljo,
As you have missed the point of my message... I will explain.
I did not badger Dazza about the constructive part of his critique... as you would have noticed(or not). I shared my "opinion" on his comments about his interpretation of the choreographers direction of the wolves.
Also Maljo I do not have trouble comprehending this story either! In regards to my comments about ages of tea cups/tea pots and princes was merely to prove that this is a story of the fairy tale variety and things do not NEED to make sense. So Dazza's comments on why he thinks that it didn't look believable that the Wolves were attacking Belle from one direction was neither here nor there!
Hey folks I am all for Constructive criticism here and having performed for many years in both amatuer and professional productions... I have taken onboard certain comments that have helped me develop into the performer that I am.
You have to remember though... For these amatuer productions, we do it for the love of performing (and for those behind the scenes do it to be part of the community) and when we devote time, money and effort into a production without payment.... we can't help but take comments that we feel that aren't constructive to heart (Its Human nature).
So I will end my rant by saying... If one of us(cast/crew) feels that a comment on here is NOT constructive... Then you'll hear about it!
Signed
Wolf No. 2
Walter PlingeFri, 19 Sept 2008, 04:38 pm
Perhaps *you're* the
Perhaps *you're* the idiot.
Seriously, people have a right to say what they want. The general reviews of this show have been great, especially considering the venomous comments usually posted. Everyone needs to grow a thicker skin, because praise from the bitchy, picky, backstabby Perth audience base is pretty rare, and I'm blown away by everyone's positive comments.
People have a right to be annoyed about paying so much for a non-professional show, hey.
Really looking forward to seeing a great show next week!
Walter PlingeFri, 19 Sept 2008, 04:47 pm
beauty and the beast
WOW what a GREAT SHOW, well done to every single person in the cast you were all absolultly fantastic, anyone interested in local productions Must go and see this show, you will not be dissapointed. Now all you jelious whingers who have nothing better to do than write derogatory comments B..... off
and get a life, A huge WELL DONE to Susan Vincent (Director)
MelzSat, 20 Sept 2008, 12:37 am
B&B - Congratulations
Congratulations to all on an outstanding production of Beauty and the Beast.
I saw the show tonight - Friday 19th Sept, with Jennifer Godleman as Belle and Craig Menner as the Beast.
My 3 children and I enjoyed the show immensely - my 11 year old daughter has come away tonight saying "I want to do more theatre, I want to audition more, I'd love to do that" - thank you for engulfing the small spark she already had into a stronger one.
My 8 year old who normally falls asleep at the drop of the hat at 7.30pm and whenever tries to watch a movie at home - is out like a light before the introducing credits are completed - was wide eyed and entranced throughout the entire show... he was not falling asleep during this one!!! Believe you me - that in itself is a major compliment just there. :-)
My 10 year old who normally would bug me with "when are we going home" - never heard that once !!
They all thanked me over and over !!!
And I thank you all, over and over !!
Even tho I thoroughly enjoyed and loved the performances from tonight's Belle & Beast - I plan on going again, and want to try to ensure that I see the other Belle & Beast perform as I am sure that their performances will also be outstanding, but will feel like a whole new experience over again.
I loved every aspect...
WOW!!
Melz
Walter PlingeSat, 20 Sept 2008, 06:15 am
Beauty and the Beast
Well said Melz, your comments echo many who have seen the show. It will be difficult to confim who will be performing certain of the roles, either principal or chorus, as illness has already taken it's toll .Since opening, three of the cast have been hospitalised with various ailments and others suffering from the dredded lurgie, flu etc, thus vindicating the casting of shared roles. Zoe Jay, our fine young choreographer who is cast as the Enchantress, has filled in numerous times to cover for female chorus members absent and only last night dressed as a male performer for the same reason, truly exibiting excellent talent and dedication.As the Production Manager, I suggest you contact me just prior to attending a performance to enable confirmation of who will be performing in the various roles.
MeercatSat, 20 Sept 2008, 09:22 am
Im so Glad
Wolf No 2 "So I will end my rant by saying... If one of us(cast/crew) feels that a comment on here is NOT constructive... Then you'll hear about it!"
Well, I for one am glad we have you to make sure no one posts a review that the cast or crew "feels" is not constructive! Are you available to monitor every review on this site to make sure any time someone dares to post a review that isnt 100% praise for the production, they get a silly response like yours? *shakes head*
I couldnt find anything in DazzaB's review that wasn't fair and constructive! THIS is why people post anon reviews people.
WWS!!!
Walter PlingeSat, 20 Sept 2008, 05:25 pm
HMM?
If you have worked in both professional and amateur theatre, you should know that actors really shouldn't be responding to constructive critisism on this site. You perform to so many different people and they all have so many different opinions and they post them on here. You shouldn't feel you need to reply to something which I see as a perfectly good review of the the show, very contrustive and very true as to what I saw in the show. Just take it in, if you think it is filth then you think it is filth but don't shut other peoples opinions down, it is not very professional for the cast to post stuff about the show as it is bound to be Bias. They have watched the show and this is how they feel.
jeffhansenSat, 20 Sept 2008, 05:49 pm
A small group of us took
A small group of us took advantage of the $25 tix, and saw the show on Wednesday night.
We had a very enjoyable night. Belle was very much in the mold of the Disney version - great musical theatre voice.
Craig Menner (who I have done shows with at Melville) did a fine job as Beast, though he lacked the vocal skill of Belle.
I've previously enjoyed Jason Arrow's performances in We Will Rock You and Paris, and he proved himself an accomplished performer again tonight. It's obvious (to me) that Jason doesn't have a Gaston-like build, (though he looks as if he has been trying to bulk up for the show), but he carried off the role with aplomb.
Direction and chorry were of a uniform high standard - bouquets to Susan and Zoe.
Some of the set changes dragged a bit, though were better than I had expected, judging from comments posted earlier.
All in all, a very enjoyable night out. Thank you to the cast and crew for a fun night. Good luck with the rest of the run.
www.meltheco.org.au
Walter PlingeSun, 21 Sept 2008, 09:52 am
Choreography
I want to say one thing and one thing only and yes of course it is going to be biased, but anyways. I absolutely adore the choreography in this show it is brilliant where it needs to be strong where it needs to be and showstoppingly wonderful where it needs to be. So well done Zoe on an extremely well FIRST solo choreographed show. I can't wait to see more. No wonder everyone adores you and your talent.
P.S. I see that it is quite fitting that the shoreographer of this show is the enchantress as she enchanted it with her wonderful skills and talents as a dancer.
Well Done.
Thomas StanleySun, 21 Sept 2008, 02:55 pm
Interesting
So does that mean that Actors (amateur/professional) are not allowed their opinions on here about the production that they are in but any Tom Dick or "Walter" can write their opinions on here?
Interesting!
Walter PlingeSun, 21 Sept 2008, 07:07 pm
I saw the show last night
I saw the show last night and was quite impressed for an amateur theatre company. Yes the tickets were quite expensive, but I can understand why, after seeing the sets and costumes they hired, they were great! The village set and maurice's house were fantastic.
Standout performance from Jennifer Goldeman. She portrayed Belle very well and she sung with great talent and dedication. Another example of the fine talent WAAPA produces. Kim Goldeman also played an excellent role as lumiere.
I wanted to see this musical for some time and I can say I wasn't disapointed. It was obvious the cast and crew had put there heart and souls into this, they should be congratulated, I enjoyed it and the sets and costumes were fantastic!
Walter PlingeSun, 21 Sept 2008, 08:53 pm
Did Jennifer Goldman
Did Jennifer Goldman actually ever attend waapa? it states cleverly in the programme that she was 'accepted'. I could be wrong but my sources suggest otherwise...
Daniel KershawSun, 21 Sept 2008, 11:31 pm
Firstly, it's Jennifer
Firstly, it's Jennifer Godleman and secondly, I believe she completed a certific in one of the courses. I don't remember which. Anyway, I am sure someone can clarify your query. I am quite happy to ask her myself, if you want.
Walter PlingeMon, 22 Sept 2008, 09:48 pm
Well I asked Jenn myself
Well I asked Jenn myself and she said...
"she was accepted into the diploma of contemporary music specialising in vocals... and was taught by Sue Kingham".
She is also one of my dearest friends and a lovely girl.
Does it really matter where her talent was forged.
She is awesome!!
peace out
xx Ali
Walter PlingeTue, 23 Sept 2008, 12:01 am
Beauty and the Beast
Your comments mystify me. You claim to have read the programme, yet couldn't spell her name correctly. What is your, ( or your sources ) reason for the question? Is it the JEALOUSY factor again. Jenn has the voice of an Angel, whether that has been achieved by training or is just natural, either way there would be few comparable, available performers who would do a better job than she is doing, with the exception of Cassandra Kotchie who is sharing the role with her. Playlovers are very fortunate to have such beautiful and talented performers in this production, including chorus/dancers, male and female. I wouldn't swap any of them, they are my family.
Walter PlingeTue, 23 Sept 2008, 05:46 pm
yet another review
I attended the performance on Saturday the 13th, a while ago I know but it has taken me a while to get to the computer. Anyhow, I had very mixed views about the whole thing. There seemed to be such a huge difference in performance and experience level. I have had a lot of experience in acting and this is what I have to say about it:
The beast, played by Craig Menner was somewhat over-acted and could have been straight out of a high school play. Whenever he was angry, he just yelled and stomped with a raspy voice. I felt his performance was a series of different emotions that were being ‘acted’, though he did make up for this in his vocal ability as a singer which was outstanding and had all the audience that I could see in tears.
Also, I found it a little strange that the prince at the start was not the same prince at the end?? What is going on with that direction? If they thought this was something that would go unnoticed, I noticed and I’m sure a lot of other people did too.
As for belle, played by Cassandra Kotchie, what an absolutely amazing voice. She had beautiful tone with light and shade and carried the character off without any mistake in any song. In fact, whenever she walked on stage or opened her mouth to sing, there was silence and complete attention from the audience. She did an excellent job of creating Disney’s belle and I think we will see more of her in the future.
Lumiere, Cogsworth and Mrs. Potts, and in fact all the characters in the castle, were absolutely fantastic and played an integral part in holding the show together. They were clever, funny and held their characters very well, especially when they didn’t have lines which is the mark of good actors.
Although the femininity of gaston, played by Jason Arrow, does draw away from the character, he is a very good Gaston and does a very good job. This is meant as no form of slur against anyone, I just noticed that he should remove his own femininity from his performance in order to do an even better job. I was very impressed.
Now, with the next character I will mention, I want to be soft because I believe this person has taken a lot of time to do what they are doing but Lefou was far too over the top, and was extremely distracting from the action going on in the scene. It is great to make use of non-verbal communication when you aren’t speaking but he actually pulls focus at times.
I am really not trying to be mean but I feel very strongly about theatre and I would like to know if it were me. I don’t believe this is the fault of the actors as the show as a whole looks poorly directed with very few scenes that ‘lit up’ to me. The cast are obviously extremely talented and were cast because they are outstanding, I just feel that some scenes and actors needed more detail and polish.
I feel that the reason everybody walked out of that performance thinking it was excellent was because of how extraordinary the female lead was. Of course, not forgetting the very impressive sets and costumes which were, nevertheless made good use of and the characters in the castle. It was their professionalism in each of their roles that made this play not look amateur.
Walter PlingeWed, 24 Sept 2008, 08:20 am
B&B Prince
I noticed you did not understand the B&B story or why the Prince is different at the end of the show? Or perhaps you didn't think we would notice your poor understanding of the script? The Prince is very young in his early teens at the beginning of the show, twenty years passes before the spell is broken and he becomes a Prince again, by that time he is in his late twenties early thirties. The young Princes (we have two) were chosen for their likeness to their older counterparts (Beasts) The Beasts (Lead actors) transform at the end into the Prince. Quite simple really!. Also Lefou (Tim How) is doing a fantastic job,he is a very talented actor/singer and is playing the role perfectly! The Direction and use of the stage is superb and the show is quite wonderful.I have seen this show three times now and love every moment of it! WELL DONE to the Director,cast & crew you are all very talented, Please don't be disheartened by any negative comments written here. Those who can do, those who cant become critics!
Walter PlingeWed, 24 Sept 2008, 10:40 am
B&B Rocks
Wow! What a fantastic show! It has everything! talented cast, Great direction, Incredible Orchestra, Great Story,Lovely songs including the Academy award winning Theme song Sung beautifully by Mrs Potts.Not to mention the sets and costumes. My daughter and my niece dressed up as Belle and they were so thrilled to meet Belle and some of the rest of the cast afterwards.Thankyou Playlovers,Director,cast and crew for a most enjoyable afternoon. Good luck for the rest of the season.
HaimzWed, 24 Sept 2008, 12:00 pm
Taking criticism
Bookseller I think you should have re-read Sean L's review before taking offence. Sean has been more than considerate in his review of Lefou he recognises the ammount of time that has gone into Lefou's performance before calling it "over the top", far from a bad review. Every stage actor knows that the focus of the audience should be on the action and over acting by members of the cast not involved in that moment can be distracting. Sean's review was constructive criticism and he even stated that he was saying so because he "would like to know if it were me". Fair enough I say!
Futhermore your claim that "Lefou (Tim How) is doing a fantastic job,he is a very talented actor/singer and is playing the role perfectly!" I am sure he is very talented but to claim that some one is playing a role 'perfectly'? There is no perfect, the variation and differences between different interpretations of roles are what make them awesome!
So perhaps Bookseller if you feel the need to take constructive critisicm to heart, you should find a kinder industry!
Walter PlingeThu, 25 Sept 2008, 12:20 am
Bookseller, as much as I
Bookseller, as much as I appreciate your comments, (and I do REALLY appreciate them, btw Thanks!) I don't really need you to go in and bat for me. Sean L's review was honest and fair.
The thing that has plagued this site (and hence why I almost never visit it) has been Walter Plinge's whove done nothing but post rubbish and belittle and bully people through intimidation and overall nastiness. This has no place in amateur theatre and literally takes the "community" out of community theatre. How pleasant and lovely to have people like Sean L who write fair, balanced reviews and give constructive critisim where it's needed.
The other thing that plagues this site is people who go online and defend themselves, others and their own shows from ANY level of critisism. This only opens up arguments and a whole can of worms as it really only serves a purpose to give the Walter Plinges more ammunition to be horrible and nasty and then we've started a vicious circle. Please people, if (and it is IF) a review is fair and balanced and has a little bit of critisim, don't jump up and down and get in a tizz over it. Take it or leave it and move on.
I, for one, read Sean L's review on Wednesday morning, went to the theatre and tried to tone down my performance, particularly the non-verbals during other peoples dialogue. I did this because I felt that, in a show like Beauty and the Beast where we have 22 performances, any amount of criticism should be taken to heart and used. After all, we have 22 chances to GET IT RIGHT! Lol.
It's hard to know where "the line" is in a performance. When you're told in rehearsals that there's "no such thing as TOO over-the-top" and that you should just "go for it", you "go for it". There's so many things to come to terms with once you get in the theatre. The set, costumes and microphones can completely change your performance. Also the crowd and the adrenaline can sometimes make you forget where you are. So what you do in rehearsals and are told is great, might not be quite so great on the stage. Thankyou Sean L for letting me know where "the line" is so that I can better myself for the next 12 bloody shows! If only this website had more constructive, fair individuals like you
Walter PlingeThu, 25 Sept 2008, 09:37 am
Beauty & the Beast
Hi ya'll, i saw B& B last night and thoroughly enjoyed it. the singing, music and dance were terrific. and i loved the energy the actors "put out there".
the only very noticable moment that dragged it down was the girl (s) in the chorus who were laughing when they were supposed to be frozen during the number when belle is reading to the beast. you ruined such a nice moment by pulling focus and what made it worse was i could hear you off stage laughing and talking. and i heard other people from the audiece talking about it on the way out of the theatre.
grow up or get off the stage.
aside from that, well done to the rest of the cast and crew you deserve all the praise you are receiving.
keep it up !!
Walter PlingeThu, 25 Sept 2008, 11:35 am
We loved it
We went to see the show yesterday afternoon and loved it. Our 4 year olds twins were thrilled to meet Belle & have a cuddle with the beast after the show. My husband and I saw this show in London in 1998 and I can say we enjoyed yesterday just as much as the one in London. Well done!
LabrugThu, 25 Sept 2008, 12:10 pm
Commendable
Lefou, please allow me to commend your admirable attitude. Not often do you hear of someone taking a potentially negative review, even if constructive, so well. IMHO, it shows a level of professionalism that one can be proud of.
Good on you for proving your intelligence and pride in your work. Keep it up.
Absit invidia
Jeff Watkins
Walter PlingeThu, 25 Sept 2008, 12:21 pm
B&B show
We are from America and saw the show with our friends who we were staying with in W.A. who had booked the tickets for us all. When the show was over we were told this was an amature production! we couldn't believe it! the standard was so high and professional and we could not fault it! We loved everything about it and had a wonderful time. This was a highlight of our visit to Oz and we will fondly remember it. Also thankyou to the cast who posed with us out in the foyer it was great to have the opportunity to meet some of you after the show.Good luck with the rest of your season and congratulations to Director,Cast and Crew.
jeffhansenThu, 25 Sept 2008, 12:24 pm
I had no problem with Tim's
I had no problem with Tim's portrayal of Lefou, but maybe it depends on which night you are at the show. Take the criticism on board, by all means, but I think before you make changes to the way you portray the character, maybe run it past the director. That's what she gets paid for :P
www.meltheco.org.au
Walter PlingeThu, 25 Sept 2008, 12:32 pm
Not Getting paid for working in B&B show
Just to let you know The Director, Assistant Director, Choreographer and Cast are NOT getting paid for this show, ALL are volunteering their talents and time. I also agree Lefou should not change his performance.
jmuzzThu, 25 Sept 2008, 01:34 pm
I'm sure Jeff is aware of that.
I don't think he meant to be taken literally - it was meant in a more metaphorical sense as in "that's their job". I'm pretty sure he didn't mean to imply the director was being paid in a monetary sense.
jeffhansenThu, 25 Sept 2008, 07:21 pm
That's the problem with a
That's the problem with a forum such as this. You can't communicate with the usual smiles, body language, etc, that lets people know what you actually mean. As I wrote that, I wondered if anyone would think I met it literally.
jmuzz is on the ball, though.
www.meltheco.org.au
Alex McFri, 26 Sept 2008, 12:14 am
Bookseller as much as I
Well said Tim! I have not seen the show but have read with interest the postings about B&B since you opened. I too believe that Sean L's review was a fair and balanced one. (well it is seemed to be so) It's a real pity that there aren't more reviews like that on this website rather than the cheap shots people seem to be taking often and under anonymity! Anyway Tim, I wish you and your fellow cast members all the best for the rest of the season.
Regards
Alex McLennan
Kylie Baker1Fri, 26 Sept 2008, 02:29 pm
Yes I aggree people have
Yes I aggree people have the right to say what they wish unless its at the expense of others that have worked so hard to make something a success!
And also what happened to etiquette?
Just because someone has an opinion does not give them the right to be plain rude.
Walter PlingeFri, 26 Sept 2008, 02:30 pm
when was the last time
when was the last time anyone paid $60 for a pro production? try an average of $100 for pro shows.
the answer is simple:
if you don't want to pay that much - THEN DON'T !!
and being upset about paying full price and not getting the cheap tickets - it's exactly the same as buying a dress at full price one week only to find it on sale the next week.
build a bridge.....snd get over it
Beauty & the Beast ROCKED !!! and worth every dollar
xox
marcieSat, 27 Sept 2008, 07:28 am
no mimicry please
Thank you for saying that! I'm not a performer but am getting so tired of comments that complain because a show isn't a complete re-enactment of another version, usually film. I saw Rent last year and thought the music was superb - yet on YouTube clips there are constant complaints that the performers don't sound and look like the original Broadway cast, although their singing is far superior. It's a matter of time before there are complaints that ABBA don't sound like Meryl Streep et al.
I too wonder why an actor would be expected simply to reproduce an animated film's characterisation with its inherent limitations. Although I know the story of Beauty and the Beast really well I haven't seen the Disney version. If I want to see a repeat of a film I might as well stay home and watch the original.
Tari-XalyrSat, 27 Sept 2008, 10:32 am
Sick of it. . . . REVIEW
Okay so I got sick of reading the pathetic banter on this thread, the bickering etc so I've skipped alot of it. Becuase of this I apologise if I say things that have already been stated but I'm going to have an opinion on the production with the cast that played in last nights (Friday 26th) show.
I had purposely avoided seeing this show for several personal reasons but last night I was itching to go out and see something so I called up my mum and asked if she wanted to come and see a show. I jumped online to see if tickets were still available - they were. So in the car we hopped and off to Subi we went to see Beauty and the Beast.
Got tickets at the door for $40. Got first row in the lounge area, smack bang in the middle. (As a side note, I never understood why they don't offer lounge seats online and leave them to last? I'd rather sit above row M and have a top view then sit in row U or V and have very little to view.) Anyway. I don't know what I was expecting really but settled in for the ride.
Overall in this production to music seemed to outplay the actors, in my opinion. The music was so strong and when the music became louder it completely drowned out the actors singing away on the stage. This made it hard to follow some of the songs. Particularly songs by Lafou I had trouble hearing, as well as some of the dialogue. Some mics seemed too loud and others we couldn't hear much at all. In saying this though, I tip my hat to the orchestra. Craig amazing work, again. Some of the better live music I've seen from a community show.
I loved the set changes. Some people, I heard at interval, were complaining they were slow and the music ran out before they were completed and also complained you could see them so obviously. Well I'll be honest, yes at points the music ran out before the scene change was finished (and there are ALOT of set changes in this show) but I actually loved the way you could see the set's move into place. It created such a story book atmosphere about the piece. Mum said the same. It's a children's story, ultimately and I liked the effect the moving and changing sets made. This was of course helped along by the design but still. So I'm not sure who has the better opinion therebut I didn't mind in the least.
My favourite songs were "If I can't love her." sung by the Beast (who last night was played by Gareth Jay) and "Human Again." sung by Lumiere (Kim godleman), Mrs Potts (Susan Vincent), Cogsworth (Drew Elliot) and the Chorus.
The leads were strong. Their singing great, and their acting also, great. Special mention to Gaston (Jason Arrow)For someone so young that voice is well developed and is a face a have not seen much around the bush but hope to hear more of.
But the chorus seemed to steal the show in the larger numbers. I tip my hat to Zoe Jay, choreographer.
Watch for the Silly Girls (Hayley Mayne, Genevieve Newman and Kylie Baker) who are quite entertaining, and really you can't miss those wailing cries when Gaston announces his marriage to Belle.
Overall an enjoyable night out. If you get a chance go along to take a look. (even if you're unsure, like I was)
Chookas to the cast and crew for the remainder of the season.
~ Tari
The Writer is a child forever listening at the keyhole of the adult world.
Walter PlingeSun, 28 Sept 2008, 11:16 am
Beauty and The Beast
A group of us went to the show last night Sat 27th. and we were not disappointed. Infact we were amazed, thrilled and delighted at the high standard and the fantastic talent of this great cast.What a show! it was unbelievable a feast for the eyes. The acting, singing and dancing was brilliant, and the sets were awesome.
You can tell this cast has been well rehearsed and directed.We thoroughly enjoyed it and had a great night out. Congratulations to Susan Vincent, Zoe Jay, Craig Dalton,Cast and crew "YOU ROCK"
Walter PlingeSun, 28 Sept 2008, 01:44 pm
Thanks for a wonderful show
Saw the show last night and was thoroughly impressed.
The orchestra were incredibly professional, I thought there was a mini WASO in the pit! Well done to Craig for holding the music together so well as always.
As mentioned, the sets were truly magnificent. Congratulations to the production crew for putting them together (and coping with all those set changes!)
I must commend the strong ensemble for their energy and focus. They sounded wonderful and looked fantastic up on stage (those costumes were brilliant.)
Jennifer Godleman was a marvelous Belle...there is a lovely purity to her voice and she really embodied the sweetness of character. I particularly loved the song "Change in Me."
Gareth Jay was also wonderful as the beast. I'm sure it couldn't have been easy working with that mask for majority of the show but he seemed to manage very well, he captured the character of the beast in his movement and his voice, and sang beautifully too I might add. "If I loved her" was a wonderful showstopper.
Also must congratulate Sue Vincent as Mrs Potts, I loved her rendition of the title song.
Chip was also adorable (you'll have to forgive me, I can't remember the young actress's name as I gave the programme to my friend!) It was also a pleasure to see Natalie Jackson as the wardrobe, she was highly entertaining during her moments on the stage and her voice sounded lovely... even when she was putting on that funny opera voice!
Jason Arrow was great as Gaston. Having read the previous comments about him being too "feminine" I wasn't sure what to expect. But I really don't know what they were talking about. He seemed "manly" enough in his portrayal. I noticed both reviewers who posted these remarks happen to be male and therefore might have a different perspective on masculine ideals, but it seems a bit nit picky to me. He has a strong voice and presence and channelled the arrogance of Gaston's character very well. Which is a good thing, by the way.
Well done also to Tim How as Lefou, I didn't think he was over the top tonight, he had pretty much the right level of animation and energy for the role and was a comical presence on the stage.
My main criticism/suggestion would be that perhaps the show could have started at least an hour earlier, as it didn't finish till some time around 10:30. I was surprised at how many parents had brought young children, even when they must have known that it wouldn't finish till after 10. I have nothing against bringing children to a show, particularly this one, but at that hour it was clear that some of them were growing very restless, even after the first 15 minutes or so.
I'll admit this one of the few shows I've seen that brought a few tears to my eye at certain moments, which doesn't happen too often for me!
Well done again to all, including those who I haven't mentioned, because I don't think there was really any weak performances in this show. This is actually the first show I've seen by Playlovers, and I look forward to seeing more great things from them in the future as I think this is certainly a show to live up to. Thank you for bringing this to Perth audiences and please keep up the awesome work.
filadee27Mon, 29 Sept 2008, 03:16 am
Feedback for the cast
I went and saw the show on Thurs 25th with my partner. Both of us had never attended a musical or a theatre show of any sort so we didnt know what to expect. Although I was confident it would be great on the sole reason that I adored the movie and the soundtrack as a child.
The day before the show I found this website and I read the reviews to gain about bit more knowledge about the show. I was pleasantly surprised to know that they were local performers, gave me more incentive to come along and support them, through this show and future shows.
I read about Jason Arrows performance as Gaston, that he apparently hadnt quite played the character well or he had changed it (something along those lines) so on the night I was sure to be keeping an eye on his performance.
Lets just say, he was nothing short of fantastic!
I have seen this movie a trillion times as a kid and I know that Jason really narrowed down his character, right down to his voice. The only minor thing was that there were points where he had to sing very low notes and the music sort of overpowered that, making it hard to hear him. I understand that must be very difficult, but he completely blew me away when he hit the stronger higher notes. Just loved the power in that voice during the 'mob song'. Fantastic!
Jennifer Godleman - what can I say. You did an incredible job of portraying this beautiful princess all girls aspire to be as children. Youre voice is incredible. My partner sort of drifted out of focus every time a song came on - but whenever YOU sang, my goodness! You can hear a pin drop in the room. All eyes and ears are glued on you, girl.
Gareth Tay - you did a wonderful job! You sing so beautifully, so soft it makes hearts melt. I understand it wouldve been difficult acting let alone singing in that mask. The only thing I was hoping for, after seeing how great and scary the masked looked, was some growling. The look of the beast on stage has you anticipating some animalistic sounds every now and then.
Cogsworth (forgive me, I left the programme at mums house & forgot your name)- you were probably the one person who narrowed his character down EXACTLY like the one on the movie. Your voice, everything! It was great.
Kim Godleman - you werent exactly like the movie character, but that wasnt such a bad thing. The way you portrayed Lumiere was slightly different, but simply wonderful. Youre character was still very loveable. In fact, during intermission I was passing mothers who were putting on french accents for their kids to make them laugh. The kids were quoting things you had said.
And despite the comments on this forum, I think Lefou was great! True, his voice did dominate the others and his performance was 'overboard'..but thats his character! Acting has to be exaggerated, especially with a character like that, thats what makes it enjoyable to watch.
Susan - your performance was just lovely. Seeing you on stage always brought a smile to my face. You also have an amazing and controlled singing voice. Just lovely. You sung it much better than Angela Landsbury =) Congratulations on the show. True lovers of Art will truly appreciate all the hard work that wouldve gone into this production.
And to all I havent mentioned:
Each and every actor, youre prescence makes all that more difference to the show. You all did wonderfully.
Have to give credit for the stage sets, the orchestra and even the lighting. The stage sets were beautifully made, the orchestra was wonderful to listen to and the lighting was perfect. There was one scene I think was taken in the castle and there was a beautiful transition of colours through the lighting.
It may be a small thing but I appreciate the beauty in it and the efforts behind creating it.
I hope you all can take this on board. It was my first musical, but surely will not be the last thanks to this brilliant performance. I really hope to see you all in other productions in the future. Ill be looking out for you when Im looking to book another show.
Thanks for a great night and making a great change to our outings. We will definetly be picking theatre over a movie night any day!
Walter PlingeMon, 29 Sept 2008, 08:58 pm
Beaty and Beast show a winner
I took my family to this show last Friday. We have seen several amature shows at The Regal, The King and I and Annie,to mention a few. This show outshone them by far! it was the BEST amature we have ever seen! Infact we couldn't believe it as it was of such a high performance standard. The leads Jennifer Godleman and Gareth Jay were just perfect in their roles as Belle and the Beast. Other standouts for me were Mrs Potts wonderful portrayal of her role and best singing in her solo, she has a beautifully trained voice.She worked wonderfully well with Drew Elliott "Cogsworth" and Kim Godleman "Lumiere", the trio ensemble work was very professional and they had a lovely rapport.I loved there tip toeing off! The rest of the cast were also of a high standard and this show worked on every level for me. Well done we will certainly look forward to going to future Playlovers productions.
Walter PlingeSat, 4 Oct 2008, 02:46 pm
I finally saw this show
I finally saw this show last night after waiting for weeks and reading all the reviews and I was totally blown away! It was the other cast playing the main roles (Cassandra Kotchie as Belle and Craig Menner as the Beast)and although I hadn't read many reviews about these two they just rocked my socks! Incredible voice on Miss Kotchie and brilliant characterisation for one so young - this young lady has a formidable talent. Craig Menner's portrayal of the beast embodied sensitivity and humour and his songs rang with pathos and passion. Having read some iffy reviews about Jason Arrow as Gaston I was pleasantly surprised to find them way off the mark. To my mind he played a highly amusing and authentic Gaston - most enjoyable and a good strong voice. The entire cast was great - I haven't enjoyed a show so much in years and congratulations must go to all the actors concerned, to Susan Vincent for a fabulous show and to Craig Dalton and his orchestra for superb music.