ST PETERSBURG — Talking teapots and clocks, an emotionally-stunted monster, and a determined princess come together to tell the classic Disney tale Beauty and the Beast in American Stage's theater in the park show at Demens Landing.
This is the time of year when many Florida theater companies participate in the theater in the park tradition. While Shakespeare is the most common bard for such productions, going Disney has the advantage of bringing in a younger audience that will hopefully catch the stageplay bug and help ensure an audience among future generations.
Nik Vlachos plays Gaston perfectly over the top, and Curt Denham meshes perfectly as his zany sidekick, Maurice. Alexi Ishida ditches the traditional interpretation for a Belle who is much more a girl boss than an ingénue, a good move that brings the story into the modern world. Joey Birchler also gives a strong performance as Beast.
American Stage has built a spectacular waterfront stage in downtown St. Pete amid the beautiful confines of Demens Landing Park on Tampa Bay. The Broadway-level production features an impressive set by Jessica Stevens and fabulous costumes by Sarah Stark.
Bo Garrard does an excellent job with the outdoor sound challenges, as does lighting designer Jessica Stevens, who must manage a production that begins in daylight and moves to darkness. Jessica Hindsley's choreography is, simply put, next level.
Directed by Kenny Moten, Beauty and the Beast runs through May 5. Visit the American Stage website for schedule and ticket information.
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