Fergie L. Philippe first saw the stage musical "Beauty and the Beast" as a college freshman, while Kyra Belle Johnson became familiar with it much earlier—playing a sugar cube in her middle school production.
Now, they have been cast as the lead roles in the first North American tour of Disney’s "Beauty and the Beast" in over 25 years, set to launch this summer.
Philippe will play the Beast, and Johnson will portray Belle, the young woman who transforms the cursed prince through the power of love. Both actors are thrilled to perform for young audiences experiencing live theater for the first time and for parents reminiscing about their own "Beauty and the Beast" memories.
"Disney stories are embedded in our DNA. They’re part of the American experience. One of the most exciting aspects of this show will be the multi-generational connection it creates," says Philippe.
Tour Details and Production
The tour kicks off in Schenectady, New York, in June, with an official opening in Chicago in July. Philippe and Johnson have signed on for a 13-month run.
The musical, based on Disney’s beloved 1991 animated film, follows the journey of Belle and the Beast. It features iconic songs like "Be Our Guest" and "Gaston," composed by Alan Menken with lyrics by Howard Ashman and Tim Rice. The book was penned by Linda Woolverton.
Philippe and Johnson first met during the final callbacks for "Beauty and the Beast." When they were paired up for a scene, Johnson immediately sensed that Philippe was destined to play the Beast.
"He brought the character to life with nuance and playfulness. I knew right away—this man is booking this role," Johnson recalls.
Philippe was equally impressed by Johnson’s commitment to her character, especially when she chose to use a real, beautifully bound Charles Dickens book from 1957 for a scene, rather than miming with her hands.
"She said, ‘Sorry, I need this for myself to really connect with the role,’" Philippe shares. "I love when actors know what they need to immerse themselves. I have immense respect for that."
As anticipation builds for the tour, audiences across the country will soon have the chance to relive the magic of "Beauty and the Beast" in a brand-new theatrical production.
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