A tale as old as time - an enchanted prince, a beautiful girl, a mysterious castle and a curse that can only be lifted by true love.

Review

Opening on Good Friday, which, with regard to the weather was far from good but bitterly cold, windy and wet, bravely defying the elements, St Ives-based youth company, Kidz R Us came up with a glittering and glowing version of the 1991 Disney classic musical "Beauty & the Beast".  Indeed it was so heart warming it all but made one forget the awful climatic conditions and how mad we were to be watching it outdoors and on such a night.

A fairy tale which has its origins in the 16th century or even earlier, one which emphasises the beauty and the beast within us all, it needs the touch of a magician, one whose wand is loaded with inspiration and imagination, sensitivity and sincerity, to bring it to life and convey a sense of its relevance to the 21st century.  Kidz R Us is lucky in having such a man in its director Phil Barnett.

From the entrance of Maurice and his intriguing tricycle, to the illuminated Lumiere, fro the appearance of Chip in the cup to the show's several staggering big numbers, it is enchanting.

Frank Ruhrmund, The Cornishman

Beauty & the Beast is a tale that reaches far into story telling traditions with notes of redemption and not judging by appearances.  But the stage show developed by Disney Theatrical Productions brings all of that to life with music and performance over which the Kidz cast and crew sprinkled their own magic dust.

There are no passengers in a Kidz R Us production: every member of the cast performs as if the whole show hinged on their efforts, lending a brightness that has always lifted this company above audience expectations.

On the night we were there Belle (Beauty) was played by Molly Simons, whose singing and powerful stage presence never strayed into a simpering interpretation of the heroine.  Given the demanding standards of the company, I have no doubt that when Megan Tuck is taking the part she does every bit as well.  Liam Trudgeon as the Beast makes a skilful journey from large and threatening spoilt brat to loving and lovable prince with consummate acting skills honed over many years in Kidz. 

Singing has always been a strength of Kidz R Us, and the quality of individual delivery, chorus number and harmonies were, as always, truly a pleasure to the ear.

John Hancock, St Ives Times & Echo