PFHS to present 'Beauty and the Beast'

POST FALLS - The Post Falls High drama department has been up for a challenge this year with its annual musical.

The department will present four showings of Disney's Broadway version of "Beauty and the Beast" from Thursday, Feb. 25, through Saturday, Feb. 27, at the high school commons.

"It's definitely helped us grow," said Linda Fry, drama instructor. "But the students have started to catch a vision of what the end product will be, and now everyone is really excited."

"I fell in love with it once I heard the songs. It'll definitely will be a show for the whole family all the way down to grandkids."

Senior Jesse Hampsh, who will play the beast, recommended the play to Fry.

The show of redemption and forgiveness involves a young, immature prince who turns down a rose from a beggar woman on the doorstep in exchange for nice lodging because he judges her by her appearance.

A spell is cast on the castle because of his unkindness, and things become more objects than people. To break the spell, the prince has to fall in love with someone and vice-versa.

The play has been in the works for several months. Auditions were in December and rehearsals started in January.

Junior Alex Carey will play Gaston, the beast's rival for Belle, a young lady who grows up in a small town with her father and ends up in the castle meeting the beast and finding enchanted characters.

"I've never been the bad guy, so this is definitely a different experience," Carey said. "It's been an opportunity for me to grow as an actor.

"It's been frustrating at times when things didn't come together as quickly as we wanted, but we've all stepped out of our comfort zones and are growing from the experience."

Rebecca Alexander will play Belle in her first major role.

"At first, I was nervous because I knew I took on a huge responsibility, but I've loved every minute of it," she said. "Music is everything to me and this has been a great way to express yourself."

Alexander said the play has been a challenge due to the small stage set, but she's confident it will reach all ages.

"Kids will recognize it and their faces will light up," she said.

The Thursday performance will be a dinner theater fundraiser for the Post Falls Food Bank donated and provided by Hot Rod Cafe. Cost is $15 with $10 going to the food bank. The dinner includes chicken or ribs, baked beans, rolls, salad and dessert. Dinner will be served from 5-6:30 p.m. Doors close at 6:55 p.m. and the curtains open at 7 p.m.

Other performances for $5 will be held on Friday at 7 p.m. and on Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Tickets are on sale at the high school and Super 1 Foods in Post Falls. Advance tickets are strongly encouraged as the plays typically sell out.