By JESSICA NEU
It’s a “tale as old as time, and a song as old as rhyme.” Beauty and the Beast is the classic tale of Belle and the Beast that many people, young and old, have become familiar with, be it through the original animated Disney film, live-action film, Broadway musical, or countless remakes.
Opening February 16th and running through February 25th, Pittsburgh Ballet Theater presents its rendition of the timeless tale as they present Beauty and the Beast at the Benedum Center. Choreographed by Lew Christensen and staged by Leslie Young, PBT’s Beauty and the Beast is a stunningly whimsical take on the classic fairytale. Various principal dancers play the roles of Belle and the Beast throughout the show’s run, but Hannah Carter and Lucius Kirst opened the run with passionate portrayals of Bell and the Beats/Prince. Graceful lines and fluid movement marked each scene, as Jose Varona’s scenic and costume design added the perfect details to each, making the production a holistic triumph. Gorgeous forests and the Beast’s castle are accentuated with gentle lighting and pristine costumes.
Telling this classic fairytale without using the spoken word or song is no doubt a difficult task, but the dancer’s execution and non-verbal acting told the story with detail and fluidity. Carter projected each sentiment of Belle’s journey from inquisition as she sets off to find something more in her life to the fear of first meeting the Beast to eventually falling in love while executing every bit of choreography throughout the 90-minute show. Company dancers round out the ensemble cast and add depth, detail, and wonder to the Bell and the Beast’s world. Dancers portray animals in the magical garden, occupants of the Beast’s home, and stags in the Enchanted Forest to bring a story of self-discovery and true love to life. Each corps ballet member, soloist, and principal dancer executes their role with precision. From standing idle yet dignified as a guard in the Beast’s castle to leaping, turning, and floating across the stage, PBT’s Beauty and the Beast is a beautifully executed ballet. Kirst’s transformation from an angry Beast to a gentle Prince is palpable as his love for Belle grows. Throughout the performance, he carefully clutches a rose, the iconic symbol of this fairytale, as he passionately learns to care for others once again.
Pittsburgh Ballet Theater’s Beauty and the Beast proves that dance can tell a story without words, which is as powerful, moving, and detailed as any spoken word rendition of this classic tale.
TICKETS AND DETAILS:
Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s Beauty and the Beast has performances February 16 – 25, 2024 at the Benedum Center. For tickets visit: https://pbt.culturaldistrict.org/production/84900/
Categories: Arts and Ideas, Reviews
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