Transformed 'Beauty and the Beast' has three-day run at Tennessee Theatre

A classic Disney film that enjoyed 13 years as a blockbuster Broadway production has become re-animated for the stage and will come to the Tennessee Theatre next week.

But the new touring Broadway production of Disney's "Beauty and the Beast" isn't just a retelling: It's a revamped, visually abstract interpretation of the animated film, according to those involved in the show.

Knoxville audiences will have a chance to see the play on May 10-12 at the Tennessee Theatre.

Nathaniel Hackmann, who plays the menacing antagonist Gaston in the play, says the production is a fresh take on previous Broadway runs, which were conceived as literal interpretations of the film.

"It's a whole new production," said Hackmann. "It's a reconception of the show from the ground up. … It takes an abstract viewpoint on the whole thing."

This production reunites the Broadway show's original creators, including director Rob Roth, who says he and the creative team have retooled the show.

"The theme of 'Beauty' is about seeing past the exterior into the heart of someone," said Roth in a press release. "And this is reflected in the design for the show, which is about transparency and layers, seeing past one thing and into another."

"Beauty" tells the story of a young woman, Belle, and a young prince who, because of a magic spell, is trapped inside the body of a beast. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end, and he'll transform back into his former self.

The narcissistic Gaston is also in love with Belle, though solely for her beauty. His desire for Belle leads to hatred for the Beast, whom he tries to kill.

Hackmann said he enjoys playing the character.

"I get to be a maniac," said Hackmann. "I had nothing but a good time."

Hackmann, who's classically trained in music and opera, said the play appeals to audiences of multiple generations.

"Generations that grew up with this movie are bringing their kids to the play," he said.

Stephen Woodward is a freelance contributor to the News Sentinel.

© 2010, Knoxville News Sentinel Co.
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