By Heather Collins
It’s the tale as old as time. “Beauty and the Beast” will open Oct. 28 at Grace Church.
The hit musical will be directed by Amy Christie. It focuses on the message that “love conquers.” Grace Church’s presentation of “Beauty and the Beast” will focus on the power of transformation, as well as the lives of the various characters.
“The vision for the show is that true unconditional love has the power to transform lives. Seeing beyond someone’s exterior and into their heart is the way lives change. I believe this is a message the world needs to hear right now,” Christie said. “Love conquers. Engage with people that are different from you. Don’t let fear paralyze you. Listen, learn, love. It might transform them and it will transform you.”
This year, the “Beauty and the Beast” animated film is celebrating its 25th anniversary and, coincidentally, Grace Church is also celebrating its 25th anniversary.
The cast is composed of about 90 performers, ranging in ages from 8 to 70, and ranging in experience from beginners to Broadway performers.
“We really value that. We want people from varied backgrounds and at various ages,” Christie said. “There is something so beautiful as they all come together for a common goal and a higher purpose.”
Carmel High School senior Betsy Sandifer will play the roll of Belle. The Beast will be played by Noblesville High School junior Jon Osgood, most recently the winner of “Noblesville Idol.”
Following each performance, young fans will have the opportunity to interact with the characters from “Beauty and the Beast.”
According to Grace Church, the last musical it produced, “Les Miserables,” was attended by thousands.
Show dates are Oct. 28- 30 and Nov. 3- 6. General admission tickets are $11. For the full performance schedule and tickets, visit gracechurch.us/theatre. Doors will open 30 minutes before showtime. Grace Church is at 3305 E 146th St. in Noblesville.
