This year’s musical one to remember

By: Jamie Burchett and Keifer Fraley 

From the school that brought you great musicals such as Grease and Footloose, comes a classic tale about how a beautiful girl was able to tame a beast. Yes, that is right, coming soon on May 2^nd, 3^rd, and 4^th is the musical Beauty and the Beast here at Normal West.

Leading roles of Belle and the Beast are portrayed by seniors Mikaela Sullivan and Steven Duncan. When asked what she liked best about her character Sullivan answered, “I love the fact that she is not your stereotypical princess. I’ve grown up watching Disney movies and Beauty and the Beast has always been my favorite.”

Between all of the awkwardness and intenseness that comes with love portrayed through the characters Belle and the Beast, it is nice to know that we can depend on Lumiere the candelabra, and Cogsworth the clock for some comic relief. Roles Lumiere and Cogsworth are played by West’s dashing duo, Fletcher Bohne and Nathan Stark.

When asked why he wanted the part of Cogsworth, Stark states, “I think that Cogsworth is the funniest character in the musical. It’s funny because he is so uptight, but only means well.” Bohne and Stark are also looking forward to performing “Be our Guest” for everyone.

The cast and crew are looking forward to a big outcome at this year’s musical also.  Being that the musical is based from a Disney movie, it is very family friendly and great for all ages. After all, who does not love a Disney movie? Community Players Theatre also did the production of Beauty and the Beast a few years back and had a huge audience.

Even before spring break, the students have been learning the music and are beginning to put all of the parts of the musical together.  Rehearsals vary depending on roles, but last from 6:30-9. Leading roles are to be at practice almost every day of the week, whereas the rest of the company is only required at rehearsals a few days during the week so far.

Even with the extreme efforts of the cast and crew to make sure that everything runs smoothly, something was bound to go wrong. Director of the musical, Ms. Marvin, unfortunately suffered from a stroke earlier and will not be back until early may.

Parents of the cast are eager to help out though. Parents Lorie Adams and Chris Bohne have taken over the role of directing the musical with the help of choir teachers Mrs. Williams and Ms. Blaine. Dances for the Musical are choreographed by Normal Community West alumni, Whitney Spencer. 

So whether you are young or old, be sure to consider going to see the musical and watch a Disney favorite come to life.