The Olney Theatre Center’s production of Beauty and the Beast began performances in Maryland November 5. The musical, directed by Marcia Milgrom Dodge with choreography by Josh Walden, is set to run through January 2.
The production has drawn attention for its inclusive casting, starring Jade Jones—who identifies as a queer and plus-sized Black woman—as Belle as well as Drama Desk nominee and amputee Evan Ruggiero as the Beast. In tandem with the show, the Olney Theatre is celebrating the production with its #IAmBeauty campaign, encouraging audiences to share what makes them feel beautiful.
Take an Exclusive First Look at Beauty and the Beast at the Olney Theatre
Take an Exclusive First Look at Beauty and the Beast at the Olney Theatre
8 PHOTOS
Evan Ruggiero and Jade Jones in Beauty and the Beast
Teresa Castracane Photography
Jade Jones and Evan Ruggiero in Beauty and the Beast
Teresa Castracane Photography
Jade Jones and Evan Ruggiero in Beauty and the Beast
Teresa Castracane Photography
Evan Ruggiero and Jade Jones in Beauty and the Beast
Teresa Castracane Photography
Evan Ruggiero in Beauty and the Beast
Teresa Castracane Photography
Jade Jones and Evan Ruggiero in Beauty and the Beast
Teresa Castracane Photography
Evan Ruggiero in Beauty and the Beast
Teresa Castracane Photography
Jade Jones in Beauty and the Beast
Teresa Castracane Photography
In addition to Jones and Ruggiero, the production stars Dylan Arredondo as Cogsworth, Jessica Lauren Ball as Madame de la Grand Bouche, Iyona Blake as Mrs. Potts, Michael Burrell as Gaston, Hailey Rebecca Ibberson as Babette, Sasha Olinick as Maurice, Miranda Pepin as Chip, Bobby Smith as Lumiere, and John Sygar as LeFou. Rounding out the company are Jessica …….