Review: "A Tale as Old as Time: Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage" at Disney's Hollywood Studios
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Nestled in the heart of Disney's Hollywood Studios, Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage is an enchanting spectacle, capturing the wonder of the beloved Disney animated classic. Housed in the impressive Theater of the Stars, accommodating up to 1,500 spectators, this Broadway-caliber musical offers a fresh yet nostalgic retelling of the timeless tale.
From the outset, audiences are swept away by iconic melodies like "Belle," "Gaston," "Be Our Guest," and the poignant "Beauty and the Beast." The show is clocking in at a brisk 25 minutes, and it masterfully distills the essence of the film, ensuring every second captivates.
Visually, it's a feast for the eyes. From intricately designed costumes to the detailed, immersive scenery, you're transported straight into Belle's charming village and the grandeur of the Beast's castle. The cast's remarkable talent and boundless energy ensure the narrative feels authentic and refreshing.
The performance truly resonates with all ages, from the young to the young-at-heart. While the show is a highlight for families, it is worth noting that certain scenes might be a tad intense for those with very young children. Given the multiple showings throughout the day and the first-come, first-served seating arrangement, early arrival is recommended to secure the best vantage point.
Yet, even magical experiences can have their slight hiccups. While the stage performance was flawless, the ushering experience presented a few challenges. Jesse (or Jessica) was proficient in English and had an assertive approach to seating. Plus, a couple of the ushering staff, unfortunately, lacked the proficiency in English to address the queries of international guests seamlessly.
Recommendations for Training Disney's Ushering and Public-facing Stage Staff:
Disney's renowned magic hinges on every interaction. For key events like Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage, it's crucial that ushering and public-facing stage staff receive specialized training in communication, cultural sensitivity, and multilingual skills. Periodic evaluations can ensure these vital touchpoints always reflect Disney's commitment to exceptional guest experiences.
A notable advantage is that the show experience comes inclusive with the park admission, ensuring no additional planning or expenditure is needed to indulge in this tale as old as time.
In conclusion, Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage at Disney's Hollywood Studios offers an unparalleled immersion into a beloved narrative. Even with minor off-stage hiccups, the magic onstage is potent and unmissable, making it a must-see for all...
Read moreGreat show – fast moving – great costumes – Good sound and classic story. This is located in Hollywood Studios right before the Rocking Rollercoaster and the Tower of Terror. It is bench seating located from below stage height to about 35 rows away from the stage. I would recommend sitting about 3 rows or more back from the stage since some people in the front row had to lift their children up to see the footwork of the actors/actresses. It is a classic tale told in a fairly fast-moving manner with several remarkably good and quick costume changes. It changed from the last time that I saw this several years ago but the dancing and singing were still captivating. The actor who played Garcon did a marvelous job from beginning to end and made me laugh several times from his mannerisms (like looking at himself in the reflection of the knife). The show is more geared toward the younger crowd but is still entertaining...
Read moreWhat happened to this production? I saw this production 2 years ago and thought the performers from high school musical student group. And after watching Beauty and the Beast today (and the Lion King & Finding Nemo at AK yesterday) I can conclude that Disney stepped up big time to enhance their theme park live performances.
Belle was beautiful, Gaston was very entertaining. All performers were performing at top level. Choreograph was much improved. My heart was pounding even well after the ending.
I saw Disney is auditioning in NYC. And I am convinced Disney is taking away some good talents away from the Broadway. Pay the musician, pay the backstage crew, pay the dancer, pay the technician Disney. I really don’t mind paying 10% more on my AP membership if that increase translates into better production, artistic excellence and living wages...
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