4 minute read
Beauty & the Beast, The Broadway Musical opens at Champness Hall this spring
Excitement is building for the highly anticipated 'Beauty and the Beast, The Broadway Musical', as Rochdale Musical Theatre Company (RMTC) bring the much-loved disney classic to Rochdale Town Centre this spring!
The company are set to transform the iconic Champness Hall into an enchanted castle - complete with dancing plates, a singing teapot and a squabbling clock and candelabra - for nine spectacular performances, from 10th-18th May.
With a talented cast, captivating dance numbers, spectacular costumes and a 10-piece orchestra, this production definitely isn't one to be missed!
Based on the Academy Awardwinning animated feature, the stage version includes all of the beloved songs such as "Be Our Guest", "Belle" and "Beauty & the Beast" by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, along with new songs by Mr Menken and Tim Rice.
Style Magazine are sponsoring the production, alongside local companies Quirky Catering and Storage World, and recently arranged a photoshoot at Rochdale Town Hall.
Style Editor, Ruth Parkinson said:
"We're excited to be sponsoring this fantastic RMTC production that will bring thousands of theatre-goers to the heart of Rochdale.
"With the recent reopening of Rochdale Town Hall we couldn't have asked for a more perfect location for a Disney photoshoot. It's a magnificent building that the town is so lucky to have.
"Thank you to the town hall team for their support and to Emma for appearing on our front cover, looking every bit the Disney princess!"
Talented local performer, Emma Konnanov, explains why the role of Belle is a dream come true:
"Beauty and the Beast was the first show I saw live as a child and since then Belle has been my dream role. Growing up I would constantly dress up as Belle any opportunity I could get and I can’t believe that so many years later I get to again but in my own custom dress! I can’t thank Rochdale MTC's Wardrobe Manager Philippa Jepsen enough for the hours of work she has put into it. I never want to take it off!
"It has been such an incredible experience getting to see all the characters come to life through our extremely talented cast and ensemble during rehearsals and I can’t wait for everyone to see this enchanting show."
Another well known face on the local amateur theatre circuit is Liam Dodd, who will be stepping into the role of the Beast for the second time. Liam explained:
"It’s been 13 years since I first performed in Beauty and the Beast and I’m thrilled to be a part of the magic once again. With an unbelievably talented cast, Rochdale MTC are ready to bring Disney to Champness Hall. I have no doubt our audiences are going to be captivated from start to finish and I can’t wait for them to see this beauty of a show."
The company's 2024 production follows their hugely successful, award-winning productions of Legally Blonde, The Producers and Grease.
Directed by Seb Lassandro, with musical direction by Chris Addington and choreography by Nikki Cooke of Legacy Dance Academy, the production will truly showcase the incredible talent we have locally.
Director, Seb Lassandro, commented:
"What a treat our audiences are in for! With such an incredible and talented cast, this 'tale as old as time' will be sure to delight young and old. With recognisable songs and the magic of Disney, it’s such a treat that Rochdale Musical Theatre Company are able to present this very special show - and it’s been an absolute thrill for me to direct. I’m in no doubt that this show is one not to be missed!"
Tickets are selling fast for this spectacular production... book now to experience the magic of Disney, right here in Rochdale!
Beauty and the Beast, The Broadway Musical runs from 10th - 18th May 2024 at Champness Hall, Drake St, Rochdale. Tickets £16, available at: rochdalemtc.co.uk
Photographer: Jackie Meredith (JMSportPix) Dress designed & made by Philippa Jepsen Venue: Rochdale Town Hall
