Bell, Beast, Gaston and the entire Beauty and the Beast cast will take the stage at the Freeland Center for the Performing Arts June 9-11 in Bristow, OK. The Disney classic has long been a family favorite and the Freeland Center is serving up three performances for the start of their summer season. On Saturday, June 10 an enchanted tea party is planned for the youngsters and offered as a ticket addon. A limited number of tickets are available for the tea party.
A stellar cast from all over Oklahoma will bring this timeless production to life in the state-of-the-art venue that has welcomed some of the biggest theatrical, musical and comedic acts in the country. The roster of performers in this classic tale includes some of the most inspiring individuals that have blazed a trail for aspiring singers, actors and dancers that face various physical and mental challenges. Twenty-two year old Makayla Wilson from Bristow, OK was born with Down Syndrome yet knows no limits to reaching for the stars when it comes to following her dreams. Makayla plays the part of Chip the teacup and in addition to her role in Beauty and the Beast, she holds down two jobs. Recently Makayla visited the Little Light House in Tulsa where she won the hearts of staff and students alike with her relentless energy, motivation and sense of humor. Gavin Drew who performs the part of Lumiere is another cast member who defines the spirit of an overcomer. Gavin lives in Ft. Wayne, Indiana where he is a theatre instructor, freelance artist, and deaf-theatre activist. When in college, Gavin fell completely deaf from Ménière's Disease, but this did not stop him from continuing to pursue his passion and make a difference in the world of theatrical arts. He speaks, sings, and performs solely through the technology of a Cochlear implant.
Patrick Lupp who plays the role of the Beast summed it up beautifully when he said, 'I'm so unbelievably excited to be joining a passionate cast full of professionals and amazing talent from the local communities. It's an honor to be telling this iconic story, and to do it in the place where I grew up.'