Flirty feathers meets family fun
Kensie Beus has a knack for creating magical moments for children and is no stranger to bringing “Beauty and the Beast” characters to life.
After having the opportunity to portray Belle at Walt Disney World 10 years ago, Beus is looking forward to transforming into Babette, the feather duster. This role gave her the joy of bringing the story to life for her two young daughters.
“She’s just fun. I really like playing kind of comedic and easy-going roles and that’s one that’s been on my list for a long time. So, I’m excited to get to do it,” said Beus, “She’s a little more flirty and flitty, but she’s definitely fun to bring to life.”
Beus’ husband Parker will also be in the production, portraying the Beast.
Having two passionate actors as parents has its perks. The little girls get to spend a lot of time with aunts, grandparents and babysitters who all lend a helping hand whenever possible. On days it’s necessary, the kids get to watch rehearsals.
“There’s some late nights,” Beus said. “But they’re pretty good most of the time.”
She expressed appreciation for having a community that allowed them to pursue what they love.
“They’re so well-behaved, and the cast is really great with them,” she said.
The two-and four-year-old daughters sat in on of the production’s first-ever read-throughs. One of the Beast’s first lines is yelled.
“Our youngest just stared at him and screamed because she’s not used to seeing him being obviously so harsh so that was pretty funny. Now they just think it’s really fun,” Beus said.
Beus and her husband haven’t done a show together in Cache Valley in about six years, due to a family move that resulted in a short break from the theatre. Performing on and off has become routine for Kensie, who has been in and out of shows since she was sophomore in high school. She finds it’s a fun personal hobby, as well as a good way to get involved in the community.
Beus is excited for this production because of how memorable it is for the audience.
“There’s songs that aren’t included in the movie. So that’s kind of unique to the stage show, and there’s just this magic that happens with this show,” Beus said.
She explained that all of the actors in the cast are committed to their roles and has fun with their characters. They have been feeling more ready than ever and tickets have already been selling out. The theater considered adding additional shows due to how high sales have been. The actress advised that those planning to attend the show need to get their tickets sooner rather than later.
“From me, you can expect lots of feathers, and fiery red hair, and lots of fun with Lumière,” Beus said.
Music Theatre West’s rendition of “Beauty and the Beast” will be at the Ellen Eccles Theatre March 4-12.
Photo by Bailey Rigby