Local Students to Perform Disney Classic

The following press release was submitted by Apple Tree Arts:

Shrewsbury students will perform in production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Jr. on Friday, Jan. 13, at 7 p.m. and on Saturday, Jan. 14, at 7 p.m. at, 24 Providence Rd., Grafton.

The play tells the story of a handsome prince’s fate after a powerful spell is cast upon him. He turns into an ugly beast and is confined to an enchanted castle until he can break the spell by falling in love with another person who must in turn fall in love with him.

“It is one of the most beloved musicals of our time because of its romantic theme, beautiful costumes and outstanding music,” said Lisa Scarlett, theatre arts director of Apple Tree Arts. "The show provides many opportunities for students to sing and dance. Cast members spend a lot of time on the stage performing."

The 30 cast members have been rehearsing twice a week since October. Students are from Shrewsbury, Grafton, Northbridge, Sutton and Uxbridge.

The main characters include Belle, the beautiful girl captured by the beast, who is played by CC Frederickson of Uxbridge; the Beast, who is played by Andrew Baker of Northbridge; Gaston, Belle’s burly, unwanted suitor is portrayed by Ted Kiritsy of Grafton; Lefou, his sidekick, is played by Ashley Scarlett of Grafton and Lumiere, a candelabra, is played by Allie Benbenek of Shrewsbury.

Shrewsbury students play several different characters. Marissa Irwin plays Belle’s father Maurice, a shared role and a villager. Chip, a tea cup, is played by Emily Brann. Amanda Frost portrays a villager, a lady with a cane and Madame de Grande Bouche, a shared role. Carleigh Harrigan plays a shepherd girl and a villager. Katelyn Benbenek plays a silly girl and a plate.

Abby Brann plays Babette and a hat seller. Bianca Cesar plays a lady with a baby and a milkmaid. All of these actors participate in the lively “Be Our Guest” ensemble portraying flatware, napkins and dishes.

Many Apple Tree Arts staff, faculty and volunteers worked together to produce the show. Scarlett and Laurie Baker, early childhood music and theatre arts teacher, are co-directors. Catherine Flayhan developed the unusual props for the characters and acted as assistant stage manager with Noelle Scarlett. Costumes were created by Sue Wiersma and Connie Hopkins. Darrel Baker managed the sound system with the assistance of Lauren Baker.

Parent volunteers created the shows’ marquee, assisted with make-up, coordinated refreshments and helped to promote the show.

Admission is $8 for adults, $5 for seniors and students and free for children 4 and younger. Tickets will be sold at the door. For more information, visit Apple Tree Arts' website.