Written by Shannon Arielle Lauson
Photos by REP Philippines and Arah Reguyal
In its 25th anniversary, REP Theater for Young Audiences’ (RTYA) Beauty and the Beast invites kids and kids at heart, to experience this timeless fairy tale through the resilient art of theater.
Founder and Artistic Director, Joy Virata, takes the lead with this retelling of the classic and iconic tale of Beauty and the Beast. As a disclaimer, this version of the story is based on the French novel by Peter Del Valle and John Ahearn. Far from the Disney version, one we’re all very familiar with, but equally (if not more) magical and captivating.
It follows a loving father of three girls, sidetracked from his journey by a fierce storm and mistakenly wanders into an enchanted garden filled with bright beautiful red roses.
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Remembering his promise to bring home a rose for his youngest daughter, he plucked one from the bush. From there, the story persists, as the Beast is angered by the thievery and demands Beauty to be the price for the crime.
REP kicks it up a notch with its portion of audience participation. Join Beauty as she teaches Beast the pleasures of love and laughter in a hilariously orchestrated song that borrows the voices of the audience.
What makes this worth the trip? It’s simply the unique and raw experience of watching the beloved story of the Beast and his Beauty unfold in reckless magic right before your very eyes.
From the brilliantly fantastical set to the simply ethereal costumes, you are sure to be transported to the land of enchanted roses…
…animated furniture,
…and a scorned but secretly handsome Beast.
This production brings together the talents of Cara Barredo, Alana Vicente, Jill Ita-as, and Maya Encilla, alternating for the role of Beauty. Alongside Arnel Carrion, Jos Jalbuena, Hans Eckstein, and George Schulze, for the role of Beast.
As previous, more popular (yes, Disney), renditions of this story are far more accessible through the screens of your own homes, this production is a bold, almost ambitious feat. But believe it or not, it is most deserving of a watch.
Support the efforts and vocation of RTYA and drag as many loving and devoted parents as you can, to watch this play and awaken the interest and eventual hobby of the new generation to the wonders of theater.
Directed by Joy Virata, the show runs from August 12 until December 14 at the Onstage Theater (Greenbelt 1, Makati City).
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REP Theater for Young Audiences (RTYA)
843 – 3570
www.repertoryphilippines.ph
Facebook and Instagram: repertoryphilippines
Twitter: @repphils
