Vail Mountain School puts on masterful performance of Disney’s ‘Beauty and the Beast’
John LaConte/Vail Daily
Vail Mountain School wrapped up a weekend of performances of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” on Saturday, putting on impressive performances that played to sold-out crowds.
All elements of the popular Broadway musical were preserved for the Vail Mountain School audience, from the intricate sets and costumes to the complicated songs and performances.
Head of School Steve Bileca said he was impressed with how much time the students dedicated to readying the show, from the set design to the performances.
Bileca said while some of those students have been participating in theater for a while, “I am equally proud, and frankly astounded by the number of kids you’re going to see who just recently decided ‘I’m going to give this a shot — I’ve never acted before, I’ve never been on the stage, and I’m going to be a senior or a junior and I’m going to give this a try.'”
Vail Mountain School Theater Director Christi Howell said it was the first performance she has been a part of that involved students of all ages, small children included.
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“There has been a lot of laughter, and a few tears,” she said.
Maeve Vollmer and Riley Hile played the namesake roles. Vollmer’s Belle embodied the role to the point where, in the song “A Change In Me,” viewers could see a real change in the character as she found her voice, which captivated the audience.
Hile’s Beast showed the character’s full spectrum of emotion, from angry and quick-tempered to warm and loving, and the affection between Belle and the Beast showcased the actors’ range of talent.
Cyrus Creasy played a hilarious Gaston, with his flowing hair becoming a prop in itself while his sidekick LeFou, played by Alexi Sege, complimented him perfectly, resulting in several laugh-out-loud moments for the audience.
Eli Grimsley was able to perfect the over-the-top French accent for Lumiere, while his love interest Babette, played by Samara Nordstrand, showcased all the character’s passion and jealousy.
Sage Evans was hilarious as Cogsworth, as well, with perfect comedic timing on the many jokes that kept the musical moving, and Diane Gaffner performed the play’s titular song flawlessly as Mrs. Potts.
Howell said she was continuously impressed by the talent shown by all those involved.
“It has been a joy to have them part of this, and to see what the future can hold for them on the stage,” she said.
