Chicago Tribune - Somewhat Recommended
"...After the transformation (also better than 2010, in part because the long blackout in the middle is gone), Agostinis looks as if he has been on quite the emotional journey. All in all, you buy this couple, and they're reasonably well supported by Logan Denninghoff's Gaston, Benjamin Lovell's authentic Brit of a Cogsworth, Andrew Kruep's wry Lefou and, especially, Jen Bechter's Madame de la Grande Bouche. After that, things thin out fast, but you and your kids will at least be seeing some worthy leading performances this time around."
Chicago Sun Times - Somewhat Recommended
"...But for the most part, this production lacks an essential element of magic and momentum. It is very much “by the book,” and little more. And while most of the crucial supporting characters — Lumiere (Michael Haller), Cogsworth (Benjamin Lovell), Mrs. Potts (Julia Louise Hosack), Babette (Erin Elizabeth Coors), Madame de la Grande Bouche (Jen Bechter) and Belle’s eccentric inventor dad, Maurece (Christopher Spencer) — are played adequately, they are something less than galvanic."
Chicago Reader - Recommended
"...Revived here in a non-Equity touring production, this 1994 stage version of the Disney cartoon musical buries a simple, moving fairytale under loads of dumb slapstick and eye-popping spectacle. Most of the time, the show lulls its audience into a Disney-fied docility--though the scary, violent climax sent a little girl sitting behind me into hysterics."
Centerstage - Highly Recommended
"...Broadway in Chicago brings us the big budget stage adaptation of Disney’s version of “Beauty and the Beast” and it is a very fun, sweet and entertaining show for children of all ages. It’s only twenty years old, but it already seems like a venerable classic of a bygone age."
Chicago Theatre Addict - Somewhat Recommended
"...This magic mostly stems from the strong material (featuring a rock-solid score by Alan Menken, Howard Ashman and Tim Rice) and the fine acting work of the leads. Emily Behny’s Belle is a smart cookie with clear, Disney-friendly voice. You immediately like her and root for her. Dane Agostinis as the Beast reminds us that underneath that giant suit of fur is a scared and spoiled young man who has a heart, but is afraid to have it broken. To finish off the love triangle, Logan Denninghoff hits all the right marks and flexing poses as Gaston (if perhaps he hits them a bit too broadly for my taste)."
ChicagoCritic - Somewhat Recommended
"...Too bad this tour skimps on the sets and the smaller cast doesn’t dance nor land the big number such as “Be Our Guest.” Yet, Emily Behny’s Belle and Dane Agostinis’ Beast were terrific and believable as the pretty/ugly lovers. Now, let me state that most children and adults will find this production charming and quaint – and so did I. The material – the Menken score and the Ashman/Rice lyrics and the enduring fairytale about love, acceptance and friendship is so strong that it always finds the hearts of the audience. Anyone who has never seen the full-blown Disney Theatricals production of Beauty and the Beast, will wonder why I harp on this low budget production?"
Chicago Stage and Screen - Recommended
"...The musical score was just as memorable as the film’s. The stage adaption brings a wider sense of pizzaazz with certain numbers, including “Be Our Guest” and “Gaston” which I found to be electrifyingly entertaining. Overall I must say that the production was a success and I’m sure audience members of all ages will find enjoyment like I did. My only concern is for the very young audience patrons who may find certain images to be frightening throughout the play. My only disappointment with the production was the useless comedy hidden around every line. We came to see the film we fell in love with, not showboat revival bleeding quirky laughter."
Let's Play at ChicagoNow - Recommended
"...For kids, DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST is a perfect introduction to theatre. As Christopher said, “It was really long but it was really good.” Even though it’s an extended sitting time, the kids know the story so they can anticipate when and how it’ll end. This knowledge allows them an opportunity to be distracted by all the other theatrical stimulation, like collecting streamers, recognizing a kettle drum, learning that clapping after a song doesn’t mean the show is over. It’s an educational family experience! As Kaleb said he learned two things, “you shouldn’t make fun of people who read and don’t be rude.” Life lessons indeed!"
Around The Town Chicago - Recommended
"...The music is what makes this entertainment so special- “Beauty and The Beast” ( nicely done by Mrs. Potts(Julia Louise Hosack),, “Gaston”,, “How Long Can This Go On”, “Something There”, “If I Can’t Love Her” and of course the marvelous production number “Be Our Guest” ( handled to perfection by Lumiere ( Michael Haller), Mrs. Potts, and the enchanted objects ensemble. A splendid job by other objects, Cogsworth ( Benjamin Lovell, who had just the right touch) and Babette ( the adorable Erin Elizabeth Coors) as well as Jen Becher as madame de la Grande Bouche. I am pretty sure that young Chip was played by Noah Jones ( as cute as a button, but if I am in error, it would have been Sebastian Hedges Thomas, who I’m sure is just as adorale)."
Chicago Theater Beat - Somewhat Recommended
"...Nevertheless, the classic parable of inner beauty wins out. This non-equity tour is much less fun than the movie, but it has its fair share of magic up its sleeves. The tour feels like an imitation in every sense. If you’ve always hankered to see the animation in real life, this is something you should check out. Otherwise, I’d implore you to see something local with more spirit."
