An award-winning performing arts company is coming to Teddington and yes, it's us! Whether you want to join our Mini Musical Classes for 5-7 year olds or take part in our term time productions for 8-18 year olds, you will quickly find a place to belong. We will be performing and exploring a tale as old as time, this Autumn, as we get swept off our feet by Disney's Beauty and the Beast. So, get the teapot topped up and rest your feet while we share some tantalising trivia!
The Fairy Tale…
La Belle et La Bete was written by French novelist Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve and published in 1740. Gaston, the villain of the story, was added by later by Disney.
The Animated Film…
There are 2 very subtle cameos in the animated film…Mickey Mouse and Bambi’s Mother!
The film inspired a new category at the Oscars as it was nominated for Best Picture in 1992!
The Beast was more vicious in original edits but these were left on the cutting room floor as audiences needed to sympathise with the character.
It made history in the animation world as it grossed more than £100 million at the box office.
Gaston’s fate is confirmed by some hidden skulls that were reflected out of his eyes!
In order to save money, Disney cleverly adapted the dance scene from Sleeping Beauty.
The Stage Show...
The stage show premiered on Broadway on April 18, 1994 and ran for 13 years. Reviews were mixed but it was a huge commercial success, going on to gross more than $1.7 billion worldwide!
The Film…
Ryan Gosling was offered the role of the Beast but turned it down to appear in La La Land. Emma Watson was offered the lead role in that film but turned it down to star in Beauty and the Beast.
Belle's ballroom gown required 3,000 feet of thread, and over 12,000 hours to complete. It was accentuated with 2,160 Swarovski crystals!!!
Sir Ian McKellen originally turned down the voice of Cogsworth in the animated version, a decision he deeply regretted, which is why he readily accepted the role for this version.
To find out more about the kids performing arts company coming to Teddington, please click here!
