Stage Write

  If you want to be reminded of the magic of theater, take a young child to see their first show. It’s nothing short of exhilarating to see their face light up when a story comes alive in front of them. Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s current production of Beauty and the Beast pulls out all the stops. This show is the perfect example of the theater doing what it does best and it’s one of the finest shows I’ve seen there in years. The stage may be on the smaller side, but the cast uses the entire theatre, wandering the aisles to the delight of the children in the audience. The production uses scenes of taverns and castle interiors projected on the walls to give Michael Layton's set design added depth. Just wait for "Be Our Guest" to be blown away by the Main Street Music Theatre's lavish costumes. Jameelah Leaundra is the perfect Belle. Her voice is lovely, especially in the number "Home". Her vocals are excellent, but it's the warmth and intelligence ...

  If the name didn’t give it away, this is not your average Beef & Boards production. The Broadway hit roars onto the stage with drag queens in stiletto heels and a whole lot of sass. Based on a true story, the musical’s message of accepting people for who they are is more timely than ever. Jacob Butler plays Charlie, the owner of a shoe factory that’s struggling to make ends meet. He’s a traditional fellow who is not quite ready to have his views or opinions shaken by the unconventional and fierce Lola. The show comes alive when Jonathan Studdard makes his first appearance as that fiery character. Studdard can strut with the best of them, but it’s during the number “I’m Not My Father’s Son” that the audience is treated to the true depth of his talent. The beautiful quiet song was my favorite in the show. At one point, Charlie says of Lola, “Whenever you leave a room there’s a great big gaping gap.” The same is true of Kinky Boots. The production hums with life during Studd...