The fall sports season is nearly complete, but one more activity has yet to finish its season; the Murray County Central drama department is ready to present “Beauty and the Beast”! Performances will be Friday and Saturday, November 11 and 12 at 7:00pm, and Sunday, November 13 at 2:00pm in the high school auditorium. Ticket prices are $6 for adults, $4 for students, $3 for senior citizens and activity passes will be honored.
Director Isaac Harms remarked, “As we were choosing from the many amazing musicals out there, we really wanted to pick one that would be fun for all ages and of course one that had the characters to fit our cast. ‘Beauty and the Beast’ made it to the top of our list this year, and those who come will enjoy seeing our talented students bring the characters to life on stage.” He added, “Whether you have been to an MCC musical or not, I would highly recommend everyone come and enjoy a night out to watch this show. To see our students and athletes take to the stage and feature different aspects of their talents is truly inspiring. Our kids have practiced and prepared through an entire season and for three nights will showcase their abilities on the big stage. It’s like tournament play for us and you’ll be amazed!”
The show you will see is based on the original Disney production, with music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Tim Rice, and the book by Linda Woolverton. This performance follows the highly successful movie very closely, with a few additional songs and broader character development of “the Beast”. Our Murray County Central students have worked hard to bring their particular skills to each character and you’ll find the casting choices to be spot on. Junior Lauren Larson said, “I play the part of Madame de la Grande Bouche (the Wardrobe) and I think this is a fun musical because most of us grew up watching the movie so to portray the character is really fun.” Junior Brealyn Damm added, “I play Cogsworth, the clock, and my favorite part is that I get to be grumpy all the time! I’m sort of like the ‘mom’ for all the other characters. The musical will be enjoyable for everyone to see because we bring a lot of energy to the stage.” 8th grader Logan Stoel plays the part of Lefou, sidekick of the boorish Gaston. “Lefou is a funny character so it’s really fun to play him and sort of be myself,” he said wryly. His sister, Junior Lauren Stoel, brings charm and elegance to the part of Mrs. Potts. Lauren is privileged to sing the lyrical title song, “Beauty and the Beast”, and she sings it beautifully. “Mrs. Pott’s song is my absolute favorite and I’m so glad I get to sing it!”, said Lauren. Junior William Lundy is cast in the challenging part of “the Beast”. William’s expressions and voice clearly reveal the conflict and changes his character experiences through the show. “It’s an iconic part and I love the songs. I think the audience will also like the choreography and the surprises.” And senior Symone Harms, who has carried key roles on our stage for many years, plays the part of Belle. “I love how kind and gentle she is,” explained Symone. “I want to bring the character people are expecting to the stage. My favorite song is the first song, ‘Belle’, because it’s classic and it brings back so many childhood memories.” Mr. Harms concluded, “The students are really coming into character these past few weeks, and the familiarity of the songs has been very helpful in keeping the energy alive. The singing and dancing will definitely be a highlight along with the incredible sets and costumes that will wow the audience.” Additionally, the show will feature light effects, sound and a small orchestra, all managed primarily by students. The school musical provides opportunities for students of various gifts and abilities to contribute and learn new skills. Lauren Stoel summed it all up when she said, “Everyone should come to the show. There are a lot of jokes and puns and children will love it too. It’s a tale as old as time.”
