Images: Daniel Boud
Adelaide, prepare yourself to ‘be our guest’! From the very first note of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, it was clear we were in for something extraordinary. The moment the curtains lifted in Melbourne’s Her Majesty’s Theatre, the audience was transported into a world of magic—where gasps of awe filled the theatre as dazzling visuals unfolded on stage. Kids squealed with excitement, while nostalgic whispers of “how do they do that?” rippled through the crowd. You could feel the magic in the air, a shared sense of wonder across generations.
This reimagined production is coming to Adelaide in May 2025, and we are in for an absolute treat. With cutting-edge technology, opulent sets, and costumes that shimmer, the show is a sensory feast. Each scene is meticulously designed—from the bustling French village square to the Beast’s castle. As Mrs. Potts sang the iconic line “Tale as old as time,” I saw people quietly wiping their eyes and heard sniffles around me, a testament to the emotional depth this classic story still holds in so many of us.
One of the most electrifying moments of the show was the iconic “Be Our Guest” number—a dazzling, bright, and joyous spectacle that had the entire theatre excited. You could feel the anticipation building as Lumiere welcomed Belle to the castle’s enchanted dining room. When the music began, the stage exploded with energy—dancing cutlery, vibrant crockery, and swirling lights created a feast for the senses. The choreography, the costumes, and the sheer scale of the performance were nothing short of breathtaking—a true highlight of the night.
At the heart of the magic is a talented Australian cast. Shubshri Kandiah’s Belle is radiant—with a voice that soars through the theatre. Brendan Xavier brings his booming voice to the Beast, making his transformation even more profound. Rohan Browne’s Lumiere lights up the stage with his comical flair, while Jackson Head as Gaston delivers just the right amount of attitude and arrogance to keep the audience asking – “do we love him or hate him?”.
Speaking to the talented cast after the show, I asked “how does the Beast transform? How does the Beast hover in the air?” – the response, “it’s Disney magic”. For a brief moment I can’t help but believe it, as my inner 4-year-old takes over.
And the music— under the stage was the orchestra who immaculately delivered this musical delight. The musical numbers are nothing short of show-stopping. At times, I found myself grabbing my friend’s hand, overwhelmed by the sheer beauty of the performance. Beyond the performances, the production’s technical artistry is a marvel. From the Beast’s dramatic transformations to the dramatic entrances, every illusion and projection is seamlessly integrated into the story. The audience was audibly amazed, with people around me whispering, “I’m about to cry!”.
Anne Quart, Executive Producer for Disney Theatrical Group, perfectly captures the heart of the show, saying, “Belle herself is somehow as contemporary today as when first brought to the stage in 1994.” This production feels timeless— honouring the original while embracing new innovations that captivate audiences young and old. It’s especially powerful to witness the cross-generational impact: those who grew up with the 1991 film, parents who introduced it to their children, and new fans experiencing the magic for the first time.
For South Australian audiences, this marks the first opportunity to see Beauty and the Beast live on stage—and trust me, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss. The show opens at the Festival Theatre in May 2025, and if Melbourne’s reception is any indication, tickets will be in high demand.
Tickets are on sale now at www.beautyandthebeastmusical.com.au. Be our guest and prepare to be swept away by a tale as old as time, brought to life in the most magical way imaginable.
Dates: From 8 May 2025
Venue: Festival Theatre, Adelaide Festival Centre
Tickets: https://beautyandthebeastmusical.com.au/
More News
