The Actors Guild of Parkersburg invites you to be our guest for a tale as old as time! The classic musical Disney’s Beauty and the Beast will come to life on the Guild stage beginning Nov. 8 at 8 p.m. What started in August with open auditions has culminated into a magical multi-date event full of memorable characters and singable songs, all thanks to the hard work of the production team and the talented cast.

Kit Parsons is no stranger to the Guild stage, but audiences might see a different side to the veteran performer this time. “I’m playing Gaston, who really couldn’t be much further from my actual personality. He’s a peacocking misogynist, so I prepared for the role by ignoring all of my natural instincts. I hope that by faithfully portraying this role, audiences will be able to have a cathartic experience by rolling their eyes at Gaston’s obtuseness.”

While Parsons plays the pain in Belle’s side, George Litman brings his whimsical charm to the character of Maurice, Belle’s father.

“Playing Maurice is such a fun experience, not only because of the character but also due to the fact that this is a very busy, exciting, colorful show to be involved in. Everyone enjoys working with one another and it shows.”

Missy Arnold is another familiar face to Guild patrons. She is in the ensemble in this production and portrays, what else, a plate. “Not just any old plate though – an enchanted plate. They brought out the good china with me!” Arnold says she has been preparing by tapping into her previous acting roles and her “fun side.”

Arnold gives a lot of credit to choreographer, Alexis Parsons, who helped to whip the cast into shape for their many dance numbers. She hopes that the joy the cast have all felt in putting this production together will translate into a delightful treat for all. And that maybe some lessons are learned along the way.

“I hope the audiences will see, what’s on the inside is more important than what’s on the outside. And I hope they can leave their troubles at the door and have a magical experience for a few hours as we entertain them!”

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast opens Friday, November 8 and runs four weekends through Saturday, November 30. All shows start at 8 p.m., with the exception of Nov. 10 and 17 performances at 2:30 p.m. and Nov. 24 at 6 p.m. To see performance times and purchase tickets, visit https://www.actors-guild.com/buy-tickets.html

The musical Disney’s Beauty and the Beast is rated AGP-PG, which means that it contains fantasy violence, some scary scenes, and may not be suitable for all ages. Parental guidance is suggested.

About Actors Guild of Parkersburg: The Actors Guild of Parkersburg is a community theater organization dedicated to providing high-quality theatrical productions and fostering a love for the arts in the Parkersburg area. For more information, visit our website at www.actors-guild.com.