Taking place at Lenape High School on April 20, 21, 27 and 28.
“Be Our Guest” as the Medford Panther Players present a tale as old as time, Beauty and the Beast. Be transported to 19th century France when Haines and Memorial Middle School students take the stage to perform this enchanted musical. Meet Belle, the story’s heroine, who feels trapped in a provincial town, and Beast, who is actually a prince trapped by a cruel evil spell. If Beast cannot learn to love and be loved, the spell will never be broken and he and his castle full of “Enchanted Objects” will be doomed forever. This classic musical love story is a magical tale brought to life with unforgettable characters, astonishing sets and costumes, and a stunning score including, “Be Our Guest,” “Gaston,” “Human Again” and the Tony Award and Academy Award winning title song, “Beauty and the Beast.”
Veteran director and social studies teacher Michael Del Rossi once again leads this talented cast of sixth, seventh and eighth grade students as they bring this classic musical production to the stage. Del Rossi commented, “The tale of Beauty and the Beast delivers a beautiful message about the power of love and the importance of valuing character. True beauty comes from within; it’s founded in kindness to others and selflessness.” Audiences will be reminded of the importance of valuing character and reputation over success through dubious means.” Del Rossi attributes the success of the Panther Players to what he calls the “perfect storm of administrative support, strong parental backing and outstanding, talented kids.” He adds, “We also receive tremendous support from the community, which is important to the actors as they perform to enthusiastic audiences at every show.”
Beauty and the Beast will be performed at the Lenape High School Theater located at 235 Hartford Road in Medford. The show will have two matinee performances (April 21 and April 28 at 2 p.m.) and four evening performances (April 20, 21, 27 and 28 at 7 p.m.). Advanced tickets purchases (with reserved seating) are available at www.medfordmemorial.org or in-person at the Medford Memorial School main office; Monday through Friday 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. A limited number of tickets are also available for purchase at the box office prior to each show.
