Review: Beauty and the Beast at the New Vic Theatre in Newcastle-Under-Lyme*

This Christmas, fall in love with a spectacular retelling of the classic fairytale Beauty and the Beast, adapted from the original novel by Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve now playing at The New Vic Theatre until 29 January 2022.

It’s a tale as old as time, girl meets boy – or in this case beast – and girl must look beyond the surface to discover where true love lies. We all know the story, right? But beyond the cutesy Disney reimagining most of us are familiar with, there is so much more to discover in this enchanting tale adapted for the theatre-in-the-round in Newcastle-under-Lyme by Artistic Director Theresa Heskins.

As someone who hasn’t read the book, I knew there was more to the story than what came out of Hollywood but I was surprised at how many folkloric and magical elements there are, all of which are so cleverly brought to life with the spectacular staging and surprises the New Vic is known for. There’s a warrior queen, her enchanted son, mischievous goblins, a magic mirror and a household of mechanical servants – although in the original book a curse had turned the staff to statues – but by bringing them to life for the stage, you suddenly create the most wonderful ensemble cast of characters and having Johnathon Charles (Peter Pan, The Borrowers and Dracula) as Wheeliam spend much of the performance on a hoverboard really, this really brought the robotic element to life. We also get to learn the backstory to the gruff but loveable Beast, performed by Nicholas Richardson (Astley’s Astounding Adventures) and meet the sweet-natured Bella, portrayed by New Vic newcomer Rhiannon Skerritt and watch as they eventually fall in love.

Now, it wouldn’t be Christmas without a visit to the theatre would it? And if the ridiculousness of Panto-land doesn’t appeal, you can always guarantee a phenomenal performance from the New Vic’s festive production. Having thoroughly enjoyed The Snow Queen, The Borrowers and Coppelia in recent years, I was super excited to be spending a frosty November evening at the theatre with my husband, and children Seb aged 8 and Margot, 4, and couldn’t wait to see this magical story brought to life. An evening performance of the show begins at 7:30pm so I was a little worried Margot wouldn’t make it past the interval but as she told me at the end of the show, “I didn’t want to miss anything so I didn’t close my eyes.” If that doesn’t tell you everything you need to know about how captivating the performances are, I don’t know what will.

As the show begins you are instantly transported to a time of magical creatures as Rajnhildre, the Goblin Queen, played by Danielle Bird (The Prince and the Pauper, Astley’s Astounding Adventures) sets the scene and tells the audience about the warring nations and battles between humans and magic. It’s here we meet the antagonistic Warrior Queen played by Polly Lister (The Snow Queen, 101 Dalmatians) and come to learn of the Beast’s tragic fate. After some incredible puppetry, more magic and the small matter of a life altering curse, we fast forward 100 years and find ourselves in the palace of the Beast and meet Bella and her volatile sisters Nigella, played by Rhyanna Alexander-Davis and Prunella, played by Solaya Sang. The sisters’ relationship adds a much needed comedic element throughout and though unlikable at times, you can’t help but enjoy them.

Before we meet our Beast we are teased with lots of off-stage roaring and noise which really adds to the anticipation and when we finally see all eight foot of him, the decision to have Richardson on stilts really adds to the imposing figure the Beast comes across as. Another element we thought was really clever was the use of a voice-altering microphone to make him sound gruff and uncouth.

The set design was as creative as ever with each element clearly thought out to allow audience members around the theatre to see as much as possible at every turn. My son, who is very technically minded, noticed a new wire had appeared after the interval and it wasn’t long before we realised it was to allow Bella to glide around the ballroom as she dances with the Beast. These lovely touches really brought the magic to life as did the string and wind musicians led by musician and Show Musical Director Farhaan Shah (Coppelia – A Mystery, The Prince and the Pauper and Astley’s Astounding Adventures).

At it’s core, this is a story of love and acceptance but beyond that and beneath the surface, the story explores what it means to be human and with the elements of war and violence touched upon, you end up asking yourself who the real beasts are here. This is definitely more than a candlestick and teapot serenading a girl and beast – it’s a real compelling tale of magic, where first impressions are not all they seem and that love and kindness have the power to change the world. It’s definitely a show you won’t want to miss this Christmas.

Running Time: Approx 2 hours and 20 minutes (including an interval of 20 minutes)

When is Beauty and the Beast being performed?

The show opened on 26 November 2021, and continues until 29 January 2022. For full details of performance dates and times, visit the New Vic Theatre’s website.

Where?

New Vic Theatre
Etruria Road
Newcastle-under-Lyme
Staffordshire
ST5 0JG

How much?

Tickets range from £19 to £28.50. Concessions £2 off.

How do I book?

Visit the New Vic’s website: www.newvictheatre.org.uk or call the box office on 01782 717962.

Things to note

• Face coverings are required whilst at the New Vic, when walking around the venue and during the
• Parking is available at the theatre for £1.50 (free before 6pm)
• Free parking for Blue Badge holders close to the theatre entrance (reserve a space with the box office)
• Accessible performances are available for schools and families
• Sign language-interpreted, audio-described, captioned and relaxed performances are available
• The theatre has its own café, bar and shop
• If you’re planning to eat before the show, it’s recommended to reserve a table by calling 01782 717954 ext. 325
• You can pre-order interval drinks using the interval slips provided at the bar
• There’s a lift to the first floor for anyone with a pushchair or who might struggle with stairs
• Baby-changing facilities are available

By : Libby Dallimore

You may also want to read this:

Review: The Prince and the Pauper at the New Vic Theatre in Newcastle-under-Lyme

Review: The Wind In The Willows at the New Vic Theatre

Review: Coppelia – A Mystery at New Vic Theatre

Review: Season’s Greetings at New Vic Theatre in Newcastle-Under-Lyme

Photo credit: New Vic Theatre/Andrew Billington

* We were provided with press tickets in exchange for a review. All opinions are our own.