Disney musical Beauty And The Beast has returned to the stage for a new and completely reimagined tour of the UK and Ireland.

Telling the age-old story of an arrogant young prince who is turned into a beast by an enchantress and restored to his original form only through his requited love for village-girl Belle, the show is making a comeback 28 years after its Broadway debut. Members of the original creative team have reunited on the production, which comes complete with all the familiar and much-loved songs of Alan Menken and lyricists Howard Ashman and Tim Rice.

Director & choreographer Matt West has ensured the show is a thrilling and action-packed extravaganza from start to finish, along the way making excellent use of special effects including fog, smoke, video projection, flashing lights and lots of sparkles!

The sets are outstanding - the French village, Belle and her father’s home, the scary wood with wolves, the Beast’s imposing castle with its huge library. So, too, are the smooth transitions from one location to the next. 

A fast-paced, funny and truly breathtaking experience, Beauty 2022 is further enhanced by its costumes, choreography and the incredible singing voices of the cast members. 

Add into the mix a generous sprinkling of Disney magic and you have a phenomenal show that should not be missed. 

Five stars

Reviewed by Sue Hull at Birmingham Hippodrome on Wednesday 9 March. Disney's Beauty And The Beast continues to show at the theatre until Saturday 26 March.