"Beauty and the Beast" Review

For the two readers who still read this blog from time to time, I just have to warn you about this post.  This is not what I typically write about.  Most likely you've come here expecting to get a laugh out of my funny kids, but this is not that post.  And since this blog is mostly just a journal of sorts that I write for myself to keep my mommy memories alive, Jacob's play is something that I can't leave out.  So if you've come for a laugh, I apologize.  Stop reading and try again in a month or so when I finally get around to posting again.

This week Jacob's school put on "Beauty and the Beast", and it was honestly one of the most profoundly touching experiences that I have ever had!  The tears started even before the curtain opened as the director/school music teacher talked about the significance of the play's meaning as it relates to all of those beautiful kids-- kids who are often misjudged because of their outward appearance.  I was so touched when she said, "All of the staff members here are here because they can see your children for who they really are."  Then the curtain opened-- and the floodgates did too.  In came the different characters-- each with his or her own personal staff buddy to direct them where to go, what to do, and prompt lines for those who could talk.  Belle couldn't talk and had her lines programmed into a talker that would speak them for her when she pushed the button.  Other cast members had buddies to speak their lines for them and show the emotions that they could not express for themselves.  I was so moved by the tenderness that the staff members showed for their different charges.  The kids themselves were wonderful and often hilarious.  I loved how the Beast added "my friend" to almost all of his lines, creating classics such as, "Go to the dungeon FOREVER, my friend!"  And there was the sweetest scene where Belle was expressing her grief at losing her father, and these four darling angels came onstage to comfort her as she sang of her sorrows.  These sweet angels hugged Belle and kissed her gently.  I was overwhelmed by the beauty and power of the spirits of the children-- all of them.  That may not make sense, but it would had you been there.

Our own little Jacob played a chicken leg-- a dancing drumstick during the song "Be Our Guest."  The second day that I saw it we were on the second row, and it was so fun to see his little face light up when he saw us.  I really do think that he may be the best chicken leg ever!

I have seen many plays in my time-- including some Broadway productions-- but this play was far more powerful, beautiful, and meaningful than any I have ever seen-- no exaggeration.  I am proud that Jacob was a part of it!