ELY - The annual Ely Memorial High School Musical returns for 2021 after a two-year COVID hiatus. “Beauty and The Beast” runs next weekend at Vermilion Community College Fine Arts Theatre.
Opening night is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 12 with a 7 p.m. performance. Performances continue Saturday, Nov. 13 at 7 p.m., and Sunday, Nov. 14, at 1 p.m.
“This year’s musical is a tale as old as time,” said Director Sarah Mason. “In 1994, Beauty and the Beast opened at the Palace Theatre, becoming Disney’s first Broadway musical. In its over 25-year history, the show has played all over the world, transcending language and culture.”
From professional productions to community theatres to high school auditoriums, Beauty and the Beast has become a timeless classic for performers and audiences of all ages.
It tells the story of an arrogant young prince and his castle’s servants after they fall under the spell of an enchantress, who turns him into the hideous Beast until he learns to love and be loved in return.
Belle, the female lead, is played by senior Sidney Marshall.
“Her character is a spirited, headstrong village girl who enters the Beast’s castle after he imprisons her father, Maurice, played by sophomore Esther Anderson,” Mason said. “Senior Bryce Fairchild plays the part of the Beast, a reclusive soul who finds himself with the help of Belle.”
The story’s antagonist, Gaston, is played by senior Jon Hakala.
“Gaston is a vain hunter who vies for Belle’s hand in marriage and is determined not to let anyone else win her heart. He is assisted by his hilarious sidekick, LeFou, who is played by sophomore Gavin Marshall,” she said.
Playing the role of Lumiere, the candelabra, is Gabe Mann. Feather duster Babette is played by Gracie Pointer, Cogsworth the Clock is kept in time by Matt Janeksela, Mrs. Potts the teapot is Juliet Stouffer, and her son Chip is Mattie Lindsay.
“Making up the rest of our cast of about 30 are many other excited students from both the middle and high school,” Mason said.
“This show is sure to be entertaining for all ages. After years away from the stage, these kids are thrilled to be back performing for their community,” she added.