Footlights Youth Theatre 
The Point, Eastleigh 
David A Putley 
6 March 2025
Beauty And The Beast continues to weave its magic and never more so than under the dedicated direction of Paul Monday and Musical Director Ben Lister, heading a tremendous orchestra of talented musicians.
This show, although performed by youngsters, is as writ for the professional stage. All musical numbers are intact with associated scenic and costume needs and all the Team are to be congratulated on putting together such an entertaining show given its staging and musical complexity.
As Belle, Maisie Tomey brought warm maturity to the role, interacting beautifully with all the cast around her. She really came into her own during the 2nd half with a perfect rendition of ‘A Change In Me’.
All the acting on stage was believable and put across. Diction was excellent throughout under the sound supervision of Rich Wyeth: every word could be heard.
Matt Talbot gave an emotional frustrated performance as The Beast. His Act 1 Finale song was so well done given the difficulty of the number and mask.
He was ably supported by Castle compatriots. The pre-dinner scene was very well done with all on stage focused. Great story telling there and particularly more so in the 2nd half.
George Swan as Lumière literally lit up the stage with a flamboyant personality, having great rapport with an engaging bumptious Emma Munton as Cogsworth. Both were clearly enjoying themselves.
As were Molly Swan and Lucy Hopkins as Mrs Potts and Chip. Molly’s dialogue about wanting her son to be ‘Human Again’ was so well delivered, as was her performance of the title song.
Luke Sharples clearly relished his role as Gaston, finding an arrogant swagger and self belief in all his scenes. His namesake song was particularly well performed alongside a fully stage presenced Annabel Hopkins. Her facial expressions were wonderful matching Gaston’s energy and stride. Alfie Leverton brought paternal emotional nuances as Maurice. His scenes with both Belle and Gaston were very nicely done.
Choreography was also full of energy, fully utilising the talents of those on stage. Morgan Dunne and Charlie Yuldon should be pleased with the big numbers they created, especially the difficult ‘Mob Song’.
The show has multiple scenes and Stage Managers Andy Rose and Karen Newton did sterling work keeping it all flowing with minimal stage crew on stage too.
Visually the show is a total treat to look at from set to costumes. The team of Sue Tatnall, Heather Cousins and Gennie Matthews have pulled out all the stops costume wise: ‘Be Our Guest’ provided such good things like matching napkins, plates and a wonderful corkscrew. Lighting enhanced all stage action under Adge Davis.
A lovely evening of good music and performances. If you don’t have a ticket, go buy one. In the words from Cabaret, it will allow you to leave your troubles outside and enjoy Woolverton and Menken’s timeless songs in a well staged and enjoyable production. Well done to all involved.
