With iconic songs, regal costumes, and dancing flatware, H.C. Crittenden Middle School students told the tale as old as time in a high-energy performance of “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast JR.”
Forty-six cast members and 22 students in the crew put on three amazing performances on Feb. 6 and 7, including two sold-out shows. Students in all three grades were part of the musical.
“The students did a wonderful job,” said director Kate Smith, H.C.C.’s chorus and music teacher. “They worked really well together, and the cast and crew learned to depend on each other.
I’m very proud of them. They brought the community a fabulous performance.”
The show began with a short video prologue created with the District’s new scenic projector, which was also used for vivid scenery.
As the story unfolds in a faraway land, Belle ultimately falls in love with the hideous beast.
“It’s a great message: that the power of love and kindness can break any spell,” Mrs. Smith said.
A highlight was the rousing number “Be Our Guest,” with lots of dancing forks, knives and spoons, along with plates, teacups, a cheese grater, a salt and pepper shaker and a whisk.
The students enjoyed putting on the classic Disney show.
Eighth grader Cole Sullivan liked playing the Beast. “It was acting in a way I haven’t done before and it was fun to learn how to play a new type of character,” he said. “Everyone worked really hard and I think the show turned out really good.”
Belle was portrayed by Mirabelle Backs, who said, “Playing the character was so fun and I was so happy to be a lead as a sixth grader. The show was amazing. We all worked so hard and I’m so proud of our cast and our crew.”
Charlotte Steidl, a seventh grader, added: “I loved being Mrs. Potts and bringing her character to life on stage. I made so many new friends this year. I'm sad the show is over, but proud of the cast and crew's hard work and performance."
Seventh grader Jakson Kent, one of the stage managers, said the crew did an amazing job with the sets.
“It was a great experience and it was a great show,” he said. “I loved being part of this production because I just love theater and how I help out with the sets and make that show awesome.”
“I can’t wait to do it next year and hopefully make every year a better show than it was last year,” he added.
Byram Hills is grateful for a Byram Hills Education Foundation grant for the scenic projector, which adds depth and character to the District's stage performances.
