2023/2024: disney's beauty and the beast
Our 2023/2024 production was the magical, 'tale as old as time' of Disney's Beauty and the Beast. We loved staging this extraordinary, enchanting fairytale and loved creating the 'household object' costumes in particular.
Beauty and the Beast production images from The Artrix and Jon Mulkeen
Review of Beauty and the Beast by 'Muddy Stilettos':
The Artrix, Bromsgrove, is delighted to host the fabulous Queensbridge Musical Theatre Society this week with their production of the Disney classic, Beauty and the Beast.
We had the pleasure to be there on opening night and were totally enchanted by what we saw. From the moment we walked in to the Artrix foyer, we were greeted by a beautiful array of decorations, and it was a lovely touch to be given a rose alongside the show programme. It is obvious that the crew have been working tirelessly on getting the set together – the settings are spectacular and breathe life into the show. The props, costumes, lighting and sound provide the perfect backdrop for the performance, giving a nod to the setting first created by Disney.
From start to finish, the play was sprinkled with Disney magic, to delight both the children and adults of the audience. The story stays true to the original version, focusing on Belle, so called because of her beauty, wishing for more from her life. Local stud, Gaston, wants to marry her, but she refuses, knowing it would not bring her happiness. When her father gets imprisoned in a castle by a scary ‘beast’, Belle sets off to save him and makes a deal with the beast that she will stay with him if he lets her father go. Much to her surprise, she realises that this horrendous monster is not a monster after all – but a loving and kind prince who was turned into the beast by a curse. Complete with memorable songs, lovable characters and an important message about beauty coming from within, it is obvious why theatre companies love to perform this timeless classic.
Directed by Jack Gregson, Queensbridge's version of Beauty and the Beast is jam-packed with a hugely talented cast. Both the acting and singing from the main parts down to the ensemble, were phenomenal, and it was clear that each member of the cast was a perfect choice for their roles. Belle is played by the beautiful Bethany Scott, who was enchanting to watch. Gaston is played by the charismatic Jon Mulkeen and the talent of the beast played by Ed Blann shone through. The stage dynamic between father and son team Billy and Paul Stait (playing Lumiere and Cogsworth respectively) is obvious with some great humour between the two characters. Stunning performances from Alex Stait in her role as Mrs Potts and Ruby Buckley/Joey Ryder as her lovable son Chip, plus plenty of sass brought by Emily Cottrell as Babette.
Don’t miss out on seeing this beautiful rendition of the timeless tale brought to life on the stage.
The Artrix, Bromsgrove, is delighted to host the fabulous Queensbridge Musical Theatre Society this week with their production of the Disney classic, Beauty and the Beast.
We had the pleasure to be there on opening night and were totally enchanted by what we saw. From the moment we walked in to the Artrix foyer, we were greeted by a beautiful array of decorations, and it was a lovely touch to be given a rose alongside the show programme. It is obvious that the crew have been working tirelessly on getting the set together – the settings are spectacular and breathe life into the show. The props, costumes, lighting and sound provide the perfect backdrop for the performance, giving a nod to the setting first created by Disney.
From start to finish, the play was sprinkled with Disney magic, to delight both the children and adults of the audience. The story stays true to the original version, focusing on Belle, so called because of her beauty, wishing for more from her life. Local stud, Gaston, wants to marry her, but she refuses, knowing it would not bring her happiness. When her father gets imprisoned in a castle by a scary ‘beast’, Belle sets off to save him and makes a deal with the beast that she will stay with him if he lets her father go. Much to her surprise, she realises that this horrendous monster is not a monster after all – but a loving and kind prince who was turned into the beast by a curse. Complete with memorable songs, lovable characters and an important message about beauty coming from within, it is obvious why theatre companies love to perform this timeless classic.
Directed by Jack Gregson, Queensbridge's version of Beauty and the Beast is jam-packed with a hugely talented cast. Both the acting and singing from the main parts down to the ensemble, were phenomenal, and it was clear that each member of the cast was a perfect choice for their roles. Belle is played by the beautiful Bethany Scott, who was enchanting to watch. Gaston is played by the charismatic Jon Mulkeen and the talent of the beast played by Ed Blann shone through. The stage dynamic between father and son team Billy and Paul Stait (playing Lumiere and Cogsworth respectively) is obvious with some great humour between the two characters. Stunning performances from Alex Stait in her role as Mrs Potts and Ruby Buckley/Joey Ryder as her lovable son Chip, plus plenty of sass brought by Emily Cottrell as Babette.
Don’t miss out on seeing this beautiful rendition of the timeless tale brought to life on the stage.
Review of Beauty and the Beast by 'AD Ravon':
A Tale As Old As Time…..Yet Just As Fresh & Delightful As EVER
Beauty & The Beast 1st - 5th Oct 2024
Thanks to 2 friends making up part of the cast itself , I was made aware of not only the show but also this little gem of a theatre nestled in the heart of Bromsgrove. For the production and indeed the venue , I could not have more praise.
In the past , I’ve watched countless performances on stages up and down the country , including Birmingham Hippodrome and The London Palladium which have immensely greater seating capacities…..and yet THIS , was BETTER than some musicals that I’ve seen in these iconic buildings….. #Fact
Celebrities , massive budget , special effects…..none of these things are required , if what you are watching has ‘HEART’ and within Beauty & The Beast , this was in abundance !
Let’s first give a shout out to the unsung heroes who are the ‘backstage team’ involving costumes , make up , sound , lighting , props etc…..who without , NONE of what we are seeing or listening to would even happen.
Now the CAST. Put it this way, if they all were to take part in ‘The Weakest Link’ it would be the longest episode ever in Television history…..cause there isn’t a single one to be found…..ANYWHERE! The singing, vocal range and ability was utterly impressive . The choreography was brave , bold and daring and executed sublimely I mean ‘Gaston’ and of course the legendary ‘Be Our Guest’ were immensely enjoyable and jovial , and as for ‘Human Again’…..the testament to the efficacy of that particular number is demonstrated by the fact that I have hummed this tune non stop now for 4 solid days
The characterisation and the subtle nuances and variety from each performer were akin to ingredients that created the perfect blend of theatre . You had the completely believable and convincingly executed exclamations of Maurice. The terrifyingly sinister Monsieur D’Arque . Mrs Potts whose motherly charm and warmth were infectious and whose ‘Beauty & The Beast’ would have made Ms Lansbury burst with pride…..it also moved me to tears. The Madame, who had breathtakingly stunning range and whose comic ability and timing was WONDERFUL, elevated that persona beyond that of the film versions…..the section which included “*Cries* Arrrrggggghhhhh…….TAKE IT !” holding out a dress to Belle made me spit my drink out!! And then of course Lumiere…..who I genuinely thought was WORLD CLASS ! I have not left anyone out purposely , I could talk forever about the acting from ALL, just know that the entire team were exemplary.
The actual show aside , the Artrix itself was every bit as delightful. Friendly and welcoming and so so helpful. I cannot wait to return in all honesty
If the moral of the tale is “Beauty Is Found Within” , it was found larger than life within QMTS.
A Tale As Old As Time…..Yet Just As Fresh & Delightful As EVER
Beauty & The Beast 1st - 5th Oct 2024
Thanks to 2 friends making up part of the cast itself , I was made aware of not only the show but also this little gem of a theatre nestled in the heart of Bromsgrove. For the production and indeed the venue , I could not have more praise.
In the past , I’ve watched countless performances on stages up and down the country , including Birmingham Hippodrome and The London Palladium which have immensely greater seating capacities…..and yet THIS , was BETTER than some musicals that I’ve seen in these iconic buildings….. #Fact
Celebrities , massive budget , special effects…..none of these things are required , if what you are watching has ‘HEART’ and within Beauty & The Beast , this was in abundance !
Let’s first give a shout out to the unsung heroes who are the ‘backstage team’ involving costumes , make up , sound , lighting , props etc…..who without , NONE of what we are seeing or listening to would even happen.
Now the CAST. Put it this way, if they all were to take part in ‘The Weakest Link’ it would be the longest episode ever in Television history…..cause there isn’t a single one to be found…..ANYWHERE! The singing, vocal range and ability was utterly impressive . The choreography was brave , bold and daring and executed sublimely I mean ‘Gaston’ and of course the legendary ‘Be Our Guest’ were immensely enjoyable and jovial , and as for ‘Human Again’…..the testament to the efficacy of that particular number is demonstrated by the fact that I have hummed this tune non stop now for 4 solid days
The characterisation and the subtle nuances and variety from each performer were akin to ingredients that created the perfect blend of theatre . You had the completely believable and convincingly executed exclamations of Maurice. The terrifyingly sinister Monsieur D’Arque . Mrs Potts whose motherly charm and warmth were infectious and whose ‘Beauty & The Beast’ would have made Ms Lansbury burst with pride…..it also moved me to tears. The Madame, who had breathtakingly stunning range and whose comic ability and timing was WONDERFUL, elevated that persona beyond that of the film versions…..the section which included “*Cries* Arrrrggggghhhhh…….TAKE IT !” holding out a dress to Belle made me spit my drink out!! And then of course Lumiere…..who I genuinely thought was WORLD CLASS ! I have not left anyone out purposely , I could talk forever about the acting from ALL, just know that the entire team were exemplary.
The actual show aside , the Artrix itself was every bit as delightful. Friendly and welcoming and so so helpful. I cannot wait to return in all honesty
If the moral of the tale is “Beauty Is Found Within” , it was found larger than life within QMTS.
2022/2023: The addams family
Our 2022/2023 production was the cooky, crazy, Addams Family musical! We enjoyed showcasing the society as one big family as that’s what we really are! With reviews commenting on our “brilliant” casting and “amazing” costumes, we were so proud of what we achieved with this show.
A highlight from the performance week was when the fire alarm led to the whole building evacuating - resulting in some fabulous cast photos outside the theatre!
A highlight from the performance week was when the fire alarm led to the whole building evacuating - resulting in some fabulous cast photos outside the theatre!
The Addams Family production images from Hayley Salter Photography
Review of The Addams Family by NODA:
Two different worlds were about to collide in this musical comedy. Will love triumph, or did everyone go home vaguely depressed?
Personally, I feel this show is very much like marmite; you either love it or hate it. I'm very pleased to say it's one of my all-time favourites and I was very much looking forward to seeing it again.
Well directed by Sabrina Sacco, whose vision managed to incorporate the large number of Ancestors, or should I say ‘Dancestors’ that were present as spirits in a number of scenes; wearing an assortment of amazing costumes. As a wardrobe mistress myself, I would have no hesitation in describing them as exceptional! Michelle Hughes and her assistant Dan Hughes who also played the role of Lucas gave the choreography a lively modern feel, it was noticeable the hard work and effort that would have been needed by everyone during rehearsals. Musical director Steve Greenway completed the talented production team. The Central Park Band sounded fabulous, be it a little loud for the audience on some occasions, but it was probably because they were having so much fun.
The well cast ‘Family’ gave strong performances without exception, I must congratulate them as their characterisations never faltered, even though I’m sure they just wanted to laugh out loud many times.
Paul Stait was brilliant as Gomez. I have seen him play a few very different roles now, however I think this is his best to date. There was no mistaking the on-stage chemistry with Catherine Greenway who was playing Morticia; her movements purposefully inhibited in her tight costume until ‘Tango De Amor’. I really liked her characterisation leaving the audience with no doubt of how much trouble Gomez would be in when she found out he was keeping a secret from her. One of my favourite performances was that of Evangeline Stait, who gave a wonderful poker face portrayal of Wednesday Adams. We also saw Thomas Hughes as Pugsley. I would also like to mention other cameo performances from Fran Foster who played Grandma, also Gilly Harris as Alice and Gareth Knipe as Mal. I loved both the setting and content of ‘Full Disclosure’.
In every production I see, there is always one or maybe two characters that, from the audience's point of view, almost steal the show as that’s who you vividly remember. From the moment they set foot on the stage to the moment the curtain closes. On this occasion it was Ed Blann as Uncle Fester (randomly in love with the moon) and Steve Harris as the painstakingly awkward Lurch who both ensured that the audience were truly entertained on their every entrance.
Finally, to answer the question, did everyone go home vaguely depressed? Oh no we most definitely did not … when you’re an Addams, the whole production was a resounding triumph from start to finish.
Thank you for inviting me once again.
Joyce Eyre.
Two different worlds were about to collide in this musical comedy. Will love triumph, or did everyone go home vaguely depressed?
Personally, I feel this show is very much like marmite; you either love it or hate it. I'm very pleased to say it's one of my all-time favourites and I was very much looking forward to seeing it again.
Well directed by Sabrina Sacco, whose vision managed to incorporate the large number of Ancestors, or should I say ‘Dancestors’ that were present as spirits in a number of scenes; wearing an assortment of amazing costumes. As a wardrobe mistress myself, I would have no hesitation in describing them as exceptional! Michelle Hughes and her assistant Dan Hughes who also played the role of Lucas gave the choreography a lively modern feel, it was noticeable the hard work and effort that would have been needed by everyone during rehearsals. Musical director Steve Greenway completed the talented production team. The Central Park Band sounded fabulous, be it a little loud for the audience on some occasions, but it was probably because they were having so much fun.
The well cast ‘Family’ gave strong performances without exception, I must congratulate them as their characterisations never faltered, even though I’m sure they just wanted to laugh out loud many times.
Paul Stait was brilliant as Gomez. I have seen him play a few very different roles now, however I think this is his best to date. There was no mistaking the on-stage chemistry with Catherine Greenway who was playing Morticia; her movements purposefully inhibited in her tight costume until ‘Tango De Amor’. I really liked her characterisation leaving the audience with no doubt of how much trouble Gomez would be in when she found out he was keeping a secret from her. One of my favourite performances was that of Evangeline Stait, who gave a wonderful poker face portrayal of Wednesday Adams. We also saw Thomas Hughes as Pugsley. I would also like to mention other cameo performances from Fran Foster who played Grandma, also Gilly Harris as Alice and Gareth Knipe as Mal. I loved both the setting and content of ‘Full Disclosure’.
In every production I see, there is always one or maybe two characters that, from the audience's point of view, almost steal the show as that’s who you vividly remember. From the moment they set foot on the stage to the moment the curtain closes. On this occasion it was Ed Blann as Uncle Fester (randomly in love with the moon) and Steve Harris as the painstakingly awkward Lurch who both ensured that the audience were truly entertained on their every entrance.
Finally, to answer the question, did everyone go home vaguely depressed? Oh no we most definitely did not … when you’re an Addams, the whole production was a resounding triumph from start to finish.
Thank you for inviting me once again.
Joyce Eyre.
2020/2022: made in dagenham
Our 2021/2022 production was the long awaited Made in Dagenham. After initial auditions and casting pre-Covid we were delighted to finally bring this firecracker show to the stage. We were even more delighted for our 3 nominations (NODA Best Show Award) and 1 won award (BDTG's Crossed Keys Rosebowl award for Best Ensemble)
Made in Dagenham production images from Hayley Salter Photography, Hattie Stark. Abbie Evans and Gareth Knipe
Review of Made in Dagenham by Birmingham District Theatre Guild:
Based on the 2010 film of the same name, Made in Dagenham is drawn from the real-life 1968 sewing machinists strike at the Ford factory in Dagenham, Essex. This strike was influential in the passing of the Equal Pay Act of 1970. The musical focuses on the leader of the strike, Rita O’Grady, as she encourages the women of the Ford factory to walk out after they are re-classified as unskilled workers, while their male counterparts see their wages increase.
After Rita is patronised and snubbed by the factory at a union meeting, the women’s grievances over their worker status turn into a fight for equal pay. Determined not to be treated like the poor relation, the women vote unanimously to strike (“Everybody Out”) and encourage the women at the Liverpool factory to strike also. However when the American bosses fly in and lay off 5,000 men as a result, including Rita’s husband Eddie, cracks begin to show in the women’s solidarity. Risking her marriage and friendships, Rita continues her efforts for equality and gives a rousing speech at a televised Trade Union Conference (“Stand Up”), leading to the passing of equal pay within the union. As Eddie finally recognizes his wife’s achievements, the women celebrate their life-changing success.
It’s worth pointing out that I have seen this musical using this set elsewhere but I was more than happy to see it again. In a very non-professional way, I will confess, this is one of my favourite musicals and QMTS didn’t disappoint. From the opening ‘Busy Woman’ we set the tone for the whole evening. Smart use of the functional set, pace and performance from all. Costume and make up hit the mark with this late 60’s styled show. Personally I would have liked more music to cover scene changes totally, but all were handled well and as slick as possible. Lighting was generally very good, the only issue really worth pointing out was that the space down stage of the orchestra, directly in front of the audience, wasn't lit at all. A couple of small sequences were performed out here – mainly using Harrold Wilson, sadly we couldn’t see him. This was a very minor problem and didn’t distract from the enjoyment of the piece.
Choreography was smooth with a well drilled cast and chorus performing with no issues. Everything happened as naturally as possible, especially difficult with such a large cast on stage.
Main Principals -
Plunged into a late 1960s world of Bernie Inns, Cortinas and extreme sexism, we meet Rita and Eddie, both workers at the Ford factory. As the central couple, Anna Beesley and Ed Blann have both the voices and the chemistry to lead this talented cast. They are both magnificent, conveying the pride and problems of working-class parents, whilst delivering compelling acting and vocal performances. I found them totally believable in the world the director created on stage.
Supporting cast and chorus
There were many ensemble numbers within this show and they all worked well, delivering the atmosphere and exuberance of the period. Within those numbers, 'Pay Day’ stood out as did ‘Union Song’. Some of the roles which stood out included Paul Stait as Harold Wilson, Catherine Greenway as Barbara Castle and Gilly Harris as Connie, but where would be without Tracey Scott's performance of Beryl? Cameron John’s Tooley opens Act two with a bang, all the stars and stripes did leave me thinking of Donald Trump(but let's not hold that against him) To be honest, all of the supporting cast deserve huge praise. Steve Harris, Emily Fouracre, Karina Harris, Milly Owen, Liam Hall, Imogen Grumley Traynor and Mr Cortina Man Cameron Dews. A special mention for the younger cast members, Billy and Sophie – Fantastic job both, I did totally believe you were brother and sister.
With such a large company and chorus as this I know that I have failed to identify all of those deserving of comment. All I can say is that everyone who took part played their characters in ways that were very much appreciated.
Summing up….
The show is loud, lively and energetic. The acting, singing, dancing, set, costumes and props all came together and enhanced this production. The audience were totally entertained which was reflected in the standing ovation given before they left the theatre with that good feeling of euphoria. Congratulations to everyone, now back to my Babycham and tupperware parties.
Based on the 2010 film of the same name, Made in Dagenham is drawn from the real-life 1968 sewing machinists strike at the Ford factory in Dagenham, Essex. This strike was influential in the passing of the Equal Pay Act of 1970. The musical focuses on the leader of the strike, Rita O’Grady, as she encourages the women of the Ford factory to walk out after they are re-classified as unskilled workers, while their male counterparts see their wages increase.
After Rita is patronised and snubbed by the factory at a union meeting, the women’s grievances over their worker status turn into a fight for equal pay. Determined not to be treated like the poor relation, the women vote unanimously to strike (“Everybody Out”) and encourage the women at the Liverpool factory to strike also. However when the American bosses fly in and lay off 5,000 men as a result, including Rita’s husband Eddie, cracks begin to show in the women’s solidarity. Risking her marriage and friendships, Rita continues her efforts for equality and gives a rousing speech at a televised Trade Union Conference (“Stand Up”), leading to the passing of equal pay within the union. As Eddie finally recognizes his wife’s achievements, the women celebrate their life-changing success.
It’s worth pointing out that I have seen this musical using this set elsewhere but I was more than happy to see it again. In a very non-professional way, I will confess, this is one of my favourite musicals and QMTS didn’t disappoint. From the opening ‘Busy Woman’ we set the tone for the whole evening. Smart use of the functional set, pace and performance from all. Costume and make up hit the mark with this late 60’s styled show. Personally I would have liked more music to cover scene changes totally, but all were handled well and as slick as possible. Lighting was generally very good, the only issue really worth pointing out was that the space down stage of the orchestra, directly in front of the audience, wasn't lit at all. A couple of small sequences were performed out here – mainly using Harrold Wilson, sadly we couldn’t see him. This was a very minor problem and didn’t distract from the enjoyment of the piece.
Choreography was smooth with a well drilled cast and chorus performing with no issues. Everything happened as naturally as possible, especially difficult with such a large cast on stage.
Main Principals -
Plunged into a late 1960s world of Bernie Inns, Cortinas and extreme sexism, we meet Rita and Eddie, both workers at the Ford factory. As the central couple, Anna Beesley and Ed Blann have both the voices and the chemistry to lead this talented cast. They are both magnificent, conveying the pride and problems of working-class parents, whilst delivering compelling acting and vocal performances. I found them totally believable in the world the director created on stage.
Supporting cast and chorus
There were many ensemble numbers within this show and they all worked well, delivering the atmosphere and exuberance of the period. Within those numbers, 'Pay Day’ stood out as did ‘Union Song’. Some of the roles which stood out included Paul Stait as Harold Wilson, Catherine Greenway as Barbara Castle and Gilly Harris as Connie, but where would be without Tracey Scott's performance of Beryl? Cameron John’s Tooley opens Act two with a bang, all the stars and stripes did leave me thinking of Donald Trump(but let's not hold that against him) To be honest, all of the supporting cast deserve huge praise. Steve Harris, Emily Fouracre, Karina Harris, Milly Owen, Liam Hall, Imogen Grumley Traynor and Mr Cortina Man Cameron Dews. A special mention for the younger cast members, Billy and Sophie – Fantastic job both, I did totally believe you were brother and sister.
With such a large company and chorus as this I know that I have failed to identify all of those deserving of comment. All I can say is that everyone who took part played their characters in ways that were very much appreciated.
Summing up….
The show is loud, lively and energetic. The acting, singing, dancing, set, costumes and props all came together and enhanced this production. The audience were totally entertained which was reflected in the standing ovation given before they left the theatre with that good feeling of euphoria. Congratulations to everyone, now back to my Babycham and tupperware parties.
Previous Shows
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1948: The Mikado
1949: The Gondoliers 1950: Lolanthe 1951: The Mikado 1952: Trial by Jury 1952: Yeoman of the Guard 1953: The Gondoliers 1954: Patience 1957: Trial by Jury 1957: Ruddigore 1958: Yeoman and the Guard 1959: Lolanthe 1960: Pirates of Penzance 1960: Cox and Box 1961: Princess Ida 1962: Die Fledermaus 1963: The Merry Widow 1963: The Gondoliers 1964: Lilac Time 1965: The Quaker Girls 1966: Patience 1967: A Waltz Dream 1968: Ruddigore 1969: Orpeus in the Underworld 1970: Naughty Marietta 1971: The Mikado 1972: The Land of Smiles 1973: La Belle Helene 1974: Merrie England 1975: The Gypsy Baron 1976: The Grand Duchess 1977: Die Fledermaus 1977: Queensbridge Entertains (Inc Trial by Jury) 1978: La Perichole 1980: The Merry Widow 1981: Orpheus in the Underworld 1981: HMS. Pinafore 1982: The Card 1983: A Waltz Dream |
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1984: Lilac Time
1984: Carousel 1985: 'String of Pearls' 1986: The Quaker Girl 1987: Fiddler on the Roof 1988: The Most Happy Fella 1989: La Belle Helene 1990: The Pyjama Game 1991: The Court of Luxembourg 1992: My Fair Lady 1993: Calamity Jane 1994: Charlie Girl 1995: Oklahoma 1996: Gigi 1997: High Society 1998: The King and I 1999: Brigadoon 2000: The Card 2011: Anything Goes 2002: Crazy for You 2003: My Fair Lady 2004: Carousel 2005: Fiddler on the Roof 2006: Me and My Girl 2007: Hello Dolly 2008: Oklahoma 2009: Mack and Mable 2010: Annie 2011: Thoroughly Modern Millie 2012: Diamond Decades 2013: The Wizard of Oz 2014: Little Shop of Horrors 2015: The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe 2016: The King & I 2017: Oliver 2018: Sister Act 2019: Sweet Charity 2022: Made in Dagenham 2023: The Addams Family 2024: Disney's Beauty and the Beast |
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