A “Tale as Old as Time” Draws Sold-Out Crowds at Baldwin Middle School

Baldwin Middle School brought the Disney magic to the stage this March with its production of Beauty and the Beast Jr., delivering three enchanting performances. Due to popular demand, Friday and Saturday shows were sold out.

From the opening moments in the “poor provincial town” to the show-stopping finale, students charmed audiences with their energy, talent, and dedication, which was made evident by the quality of the performances and set design. The production featured a full cast of standout performers, including Summer James as Belle and Mason Daudier as the Beast, supported by a sizeable and dynamic ensemble that brought the beloved fairytale to life.

The packed house was treated to such classic musical numbers as “Belle,” “Gaston,” “Be Our Guest,” and “Beauty and the Beast”—all performed with enthusiasm and elegance well beyond middle school expectations. Each scene exhibited not only strong vocal range but impressive choreography, detailed staging, and vibrant costumes. Behind the scenes, a dedicated student crew handled everything from lighting and sound to props and stage management.

“With a cast of over 80 students, and an incredible team of directors, Beauty and the Beast Jr. truly became a labor of love,” said Ms. Tricia Wilder, the play director as well as a Plaza Elementary School teacher. “Our students rose to the occasion, delivering two sold-out performances that brought audiences to their feet each night. I feel so fortunate to work alongside such talented, dedicated young performers and to help nurture their passion for theater. This production became our own ‘tale as old as time,’ reminding us of the magic that happens when dedication and passion come together.”

André Poprilo, the director of fine & performing arts for Baldwin Union Free School District, expressed how impressed he was with this year’s musical. “This production was a beautiful display of middle school students investing themselves into the performing arts.  They demonstrated personal accomplishments, teamwork perseverance, commitment, support of one another, follow-through, and accountability.  These building blocks of personal success were tangibly demonstrated by the students in this production.  Every ticket holder was able to see, not only an excellent performance, but witnessed how the performing arts are preparing students to apply these competencies in their future success.” 

In a message to the cast, Ms. Wilder praised the students for their “heart, courage, and unforgettable magic,” emphasizing the teamwork and growth that defined the experience. Indeed, this was evident to everyone who filled the auditorium at each show.

With two sold-out performances and a spellbound audience, the success of Beauty and the Beast Jr. is a testament to Baldwin Middle School’s thriving fine and performing arts program. Bravo!

See playbill for full cast >>