Theatre and Dance

The "Beauty and the Beast" that we know exists on a battered old VHS tape that nevertheless offers a glorious Disney technicolour account of Belle, a humble young woman, held captive by a terrifyingly malformed Beast.

The West Yorkshire Playhouse version, however, offers a mesmerisingly novel adaptation of the popular fairytale, much to the relief of 6-year-old Jakey who was worried that he would have to sit through two hours of pink satin frocks and a singing candelabra!

CP Hallam as the father

The tale which unravels tells of a merchant and his spoiled daughter, Beauty, both of whom are forced to live a more modest lifestyle when bankruptcy hits the family business. As Beauty's father tries to re-secure his fortune he sets off on an ill-fated voyage that sees him imprisoned in the Beast's castle. But before he departs, Beauty selfishly sets out her demands: "Bring me a present, a big present, dresses, pearls...I want to be waited on hand and foot!"

Thankfully the moral lesson remains steadfast as the merchant's faithful servants, Cook and her son Francis, help father and daughter (via the odd shake of fairy dust) pick up the pieces and learn some valuable life-lessons in humility and hard work. 

Written by Mike Kenny and directed by Gail MacIntyre (both of Flat Stanley fame) the production is intriguing from the start. The set is littered with giant-sized props - a thimble the size of a well, a button the size of Big Ben (almost!) and an eight foot high ruby earring to name but a few and transports young and old to an enchanting place called childhood. 

Louisa Eyo as the Cook

The action that unfolds revolves around multi-layered storytelling that appeals to both children and grown ups alike. Jakey was kept entertained by the fool-like Francis and his on stage antics. Shay (aged 8) particularly liked the array of shadowy visuals and captivating sound effects and four-year-old Laily was kept on the edge of her seat waiting for the Beast to make his fearful entrance to the ominous strains of thunder.

David, their grown-up father, on the other hand was a little more sceptical, worried that the Alice In Wonderland-like set and the adapted storyline would be a little too confusing in places for children. Perhaps as adults we analyse too much instead of launching ourselves unashamedly into the fairytale world which lies before us.

All four members of the cast should be commended for their performances delivered with energy, gusto and a huge dose of humour: "Perhaps the Beast won't eat meat" murmurs Beauty worried that the Beast may devour her. "Fingers crossed, chuck!" retorted one of the Beast's servants wryly.

In true fairytale fashion, Beauty and her Beast finally realise their feelings for one another. The selfishness disappears from Belle and the Beast comes to understand that what he lacks in looks, he more than makes up in kindness and love.

Beauty and the Beast runs at the West Yorkshire Playhouse until Saturday 12 January 2008.