This year’s must-see show is Chantry Dance’s new production of ‘Beauty & the Beast’, created by Rae Piper and Paul Chantry who are known for their choreographic work on David Walliams’ Olivier-nominated West End shows, as well as being award-winning film producers. ‘Beauty & the Beast’ also stars Britain’s Got Talent finalist, Shannon Parker and plays at Trinity Theatre on September 29th.
‘Beauty & the Beast’ is a thrilling new show for all the family. The show’s creators Rae Piper and Paul Chantry are well known as the choreographers of the Olivier-nominated David Walliams’ shows ‘Gangsta Granny’ and ‘Billionaire Boy’, as well as some of the ‘Horrible histories’ stage shows. They both work internationally with their work having been seen in America and Europe, as well as in the UK at the Royal Opera House, Sadler’s Wells and in the West End, and this year sees their dance film, ‘Whoever You Are’, receive its US premiere in Hollywood.
‘Beauty & the Beast’ also stars Shannon Parker as the Green Lady. Known for her appearances with Peter Parker as ‘Shannon and Pete’ on Britain’s Got Talent, Shannon and Pete were BGT finalists and Wild Card Winners, as well as finalists on Sky’s ‘Got To Dance’. Shannon has an incredible dance pedigree having been Principal dancer with San Francisco Ballet, Northern Ballet Theatre and Ballet Du Rhin, and dancing for world-renowned choreographers such as William Forsythe.
Chantry’s new version of ‘Beauty & the Beast’ is inspired by the original French folktale of La Belle et la Bête, re-imagined for a 21st century family audience. In this new version we meet the vain Lord Bieth who wants to cut down the forest to expand his city. However, the Green Lady puts a stop to his plan and, in a fitting punishment, turns him into a beast who is compelled to guard the forest against destruction by greedy city folk.
Years later, through the gift of a magical rose, Lord Bieth’s path crosses with the young maiden Áille. She is completely unlike the other self-absorbed city folk and her beautiful heart may just change the Beast’s life forever.
This engaging new show highlights the importance of preserving natural habitats and asks what is genuine beauty? We learn alongside the Beast that looks count for less than the beauty in your heart, and are encouraged not to base our judgements of someone’s worth on their outward appearance.
The show features outstanding dance, acrobatics and circus from the performers of Chantry Dance, beautiful costumes and a new score from composer Tim Mountain.
‘Beauty & the Beast’ is set to provide a great evening of family entertainment. Last year’s audience members were delighted by Chantry’s production, saying, “superb”, “pure brilliance” and “Chantry Dance Company….YOU ROCK!” You can find out more about Chantry Dance Company at www.chantrydancecompany.org
‘Beauty & the Beast’ will play at Trinity Theatre, Tunbridge Wells on Thursday Sept 29th. Tickets can be booked at www.trinitytheatre.net or 01892 678678.
*Photo Credit Dani Bower
