NW Valley Times

After two months of preparation, the Grand Canyon University's theatre department is ready to unveil its production of "Beauty and the Beast." The final shows are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, with a matinee at 2 p.m. on Sunday.

Jessica Mangels, who plays Belle, expressed her excitement about performing in front of an audience. "It feels like yesterday that we found out the cast list and were all crying in the hallway," she said. "I am so ready to have an audience. My goal is to make my family and my boyfriend cry."

The cast has been rehearsing since September, working late into the night to perfect their roles. Mangels mentioned the challenge of taking on iconic characters but noted her eagerness to perform. "It was a big jump for a lot of us to take on these roles, but we wouldn’t change it for the world," she said.

Backstage at Ethington Theatre is bustling as students prepare for opening night. Hair and Makeup Designer Cora Epton described her creative process: “I took paintings, objects and pictures from the live action of the feelings I wanted to create.”

Luke Lundberg, who plays the Beast, has one of the more complex makeup designs. He noted that wearing his costume can be challenging due to heat but added humorously about carrying a fan.

Lundberg also committed to growing a beard for his role, which he now considers keeping long-term. Both he and Mangels use nebulizers backstage to maintain their vocal health during performances.

As showtime approaches, actors work with hair and makeup teams led by Kennedy Bailey to achieve their character looks. Mangels commented on how styling helps her get into character: “Putting the costumes on helps get you into character, but especially the hair.”

Wardrobe Supervisor Jacie Worley assists Lundberg with his intricate costume changes backstage. As they prepare for physical warmups led by assistant stage managers, Lundberg shared concerns about staying hydrated without needing frequent breaks during performances.

Stage Manager Gracie Down highlighted the camaraderie among cast members developed over two months of intense preparation: “When you are with the same people every day for two months, this becomes your little family.”

The production culminates in physical and vocal warmups before final announcements and prayer outside Ethington Theatre.

Tickets are available for those interested in attending GCU's rendition of this classic Disney tale.