Each year, Chester Valley Dance Academy produces an Opening Number for the annual recital based on iconic productions of music and dance. This year’s Opening Number, “Beauty and the Beast”, brought beloved characters to life through dance, transporting the audience into a world of enchantment and romance. The dancers, ranging in age and skill level, flawlessly embodied the characters of this classic story. Belle, the Beast, and the enchanted household objects all came to life through expressive movements and emotive performances, paired with fantastic costuming.

The costumes were a highlight of the production, showcasing meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of the characters. From Belle’s iconic yellow gown to the unique outfits of the townspeople and the enchanted objects like Lumière, Mrs. Potts, and Cogsworth, each costume brought the characters to life with creative and intricate designs, adding a touch of whimsy and magic to the performance. We thank Stephanie Farrelly for her tireless work on this year’s production. Her outstanding attention to detail in costume design added a layer of authenticity and beauty to this performance.

The set design played a crucial role in immersing the audience in the story. The stage transformed seamlessly from the quaint village where Belle lives to Gaston’s tavern, to the grand and mysterious castle of the Beast. We thank Pam Devenney and the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur for lending us sets that brought this story to life.

At the helm of this production were the dynamic duo of Kenzie Reid and Cathy Moran. Their choreography not only showcased the dancers' technical prowess but also challenged them to delve deep into their acting abilities resulting in captivating dance numbers to beloved songs of “Beauty and the Beast”.

The students’ commitment to their craft was evident in every aspect of the show. Many sacrificed their Friday nights and Saturdays for rehearsals, demonstrating a level of dedication that paid off in their polished and passionate performances. The stage crew and volunteers also worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the production ran smoothly, contributing to the overall success of the production.

The musical theater dance seen in this production of "Beauty and the Beast" is a testament to the comprehensive training offered at Chester Valley Dance Academy. This commitment to excellence extends beyond the annual recital and into the studio’s Summer Musical Theater Program. Here, students spend a week immersed in the world of acting, singing, and dancing. This program provides an intensive hands-on experience, allowing students to develop their talents in a supportive and creative environment. The seamless integration of these disciplines in the recital’s opening number highlights the effectiveness of this program in preparing students for multifaceted performances.