Beauty and the Beast meet at Church Hill Theatre

IT’S a tale as old as time and one that has toured to the Capital many times before - Beauty And The Beast.

This week at the Church Hill Theatre, it’s the turn of the kids at LYAMC to tackle the Disney favourite, which features popular songs such as Be Our Guest, Human Again and, of course, the title track.

This stage adaptation of the 1991 musical features an 80-strong cast aged between eight and 25, who tell the story of Belle, the studious girl who falls in love with a monster.

Rachel Flynn, 17, from Newington, plays Bells. The former James Gillespie’s pupil says, “I remember as a little girl I always dreamed about becoming a Disney Princess when I was older. Whoever thought that, for a week I would be able to become just that.

“Belle has witty lines, wonderful music and gorgeous costumes but for me, the best thing about playing Belle is just being part of such a classic story with a meaningful message.

“I’ve always lived by the saying ‘Don’t judge a book by its cover’, and that’s exactly what Beauty and the Beast represents. Belle has been the role of my life so far and I’ve had an absolute ball but the best moment is stepping on stage in that big yellow dress. It’s a wonderful feeling.”

Andrew WIlliamson, a 19-year-old Heriot Watt student from South Edinburgh plays the Beast.

He adds, “My favourite song in the show is definitely No Matter What, which is sung by Belle’s father. The transformation from Beast to Prince is tricky as it is very quick. That’s all I can say. I wouldn’t want spoil that Disney Magic for the audience.”

Beauty And The Beast, Church Hill Theatre, until Saturday, 7.30pm, (Mat 2.30pm), £10, 0131-476 6945

LIAM RUDDEN

REVIEW: SEE PAGE 18