With a cast of exceptionally talented youngsters, JT Productions’ Beauty and the Beast Jr opened last night (Tuesday) in an explosion of colour and fun.
Since first seeing the film as a kid in the early ’90s, Beauty and the Beast has been a favourite of mine.
Having enjoyed Douglas Choral Union’s production back in 2010, I was keen to see it again on the Gaiety stage.
Under the expert directorship of Olivia Black, the show sparkled just as brightly the second time around.
As usual when watching our next generation of performers, I was impressed by the cast’s professionalism and their joy in entertaining. While the performing arts have always been strong in the Isle of Man, standards seem to have skyrocketed in the last decade or so.
I would urge everyone, whether personally invested or not, to support Manx youth theatre; we have a remarkable wealth of talent, and it is of no surprise that many who cut their teeth at the Gaiety go on to theatrical success further afield.
If you haven’t already, buy a ticket – you’re in for a treat.
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The full version of this review will appear in this week’s Manx Independent - in shops from Thursday morning
