CULLMAN, Ala. – A tale as old as time is coming to Cullman, as the Cullman Community Theatre presents Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast JR” in the Cullman High School auditorium.
The production features young performers from across the community, who will bring the beloved story to life “through music, dancing, laughter, adventure, and a little bit of magic,” according to the CCT.
Showtimes
- Thursday, Oct. 22, 6 p.m.
- Friday, Oct. 23, 6 p.m.
- Saturday, Oct. 24, 1 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Tickets can be purchased online at CullmanCoTheatre.ludus.com or at the door. Children 3 and younger will be admitted for free.
A tale as old as time
The musical tells the story of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, a prince placed under an enchantress’s spell. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved before time runs out, the curse will be broken, and he and his household of enchanted castle objects will return to human form.
“Beauty and the Beast JR” is a one-act, roughly 60-minute version of the Broadway musical adapted especially for young performers by Music Theatre International’s Broadway Junior program. It features music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Tim Rice and a book by Linda Woolverton, and includes favorites such as “Belle,” “Gaston,” “Be Our Guest,” “Something There,” “Human Again” and the title song, “Beauty and the Beast.” The show’s large cast of characters, from Lumiere and Cogsworth to Mrs. Potts and Chip, gives plenty of young actors a chance to shine.
“Come experience a tale as old as time and support these talented young performers as they take the stage,” the CCT said. “We can’t wait to welcome you to the castle!”
Community theater for all ages
The CCT is a volunteer-driven organization operated through Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism and dedicated to bringing quality live theater to the community. According to its website, the group offers productions, educational opportunities and a love for the arts that aims to entertain, inspire and connect audiences of all ages.
The CCT was revived in 2018, when Cullman High School Theatre Director Wayne Cook partnered with CPRST to bring community theater back to Cullman. At the time, Cook told The Tribune the group would be open to all ages and residents across Cullman County, saying, “It fills a need, fills a gap (with something) that we currently don’t have.”
Most recently, the group staged “My Fair Lady” in August in the Cullman High School auditorium, with a cast that mixed seasoned performers with first-time actors and many younger ensemble members.
What’s next
The curtain won’t stay down for long. Auditions for Agatha Christie’s mystery “The Mousetrap” will be held Saturday, Nov. 14, with performances scheduled Feb. 4-7.
The CCT is also forming the new Cullman Community Choir, which will rehearse regularly and perform at local events such as Oktoberfest, Christkindlmarkt, the Strawberry Festival and a spring concert.
Not a performer? The CCT is looking for behind-the-scenes volunteers, too, including stage crew, set builders and painters, sound and lighting technicians, box office help and hair, makeup and wardrobe assistants.
For more information, visit www.cullmanrecreation.org/cullman-community-theatre, call Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism at 256-734-9157 or email info@cullmanrecreation.org.
