“Ever just the same, ever a surprise…” Those iconic lyrics take on new life in the Beauty and the Beast Broadway musical, Disney’s first stage adaptation of a classic animated film. The production brought together a powerhouse team and debuted with great fanfare—introducing new costumes, songs, and storytelling techniques that transformed the 1991 animated feature into a magical live theater experience.
Bringing Animation to the Stage
Costume Designer Ann Hould-Ward reimagined Belle’s look and created costumes that translated animated wonder into tactile stage visuals. Drawing from everything from rock band aesthetics to royal court fashion, Hould-Ward and the creative team sought to maintain the animated charm while embracing the energy of live theater. Her work earned her a Tony Award for Best Costume Design.
Inspired by a challenge from Disney leadership—including then-CEO Michael Eisner and Studios chairman Jeffrey Katzenberg—the creative team set out to preserve the “essence” of the film while adding unique theatrical qualities. The result? A show that honored the original but stood proudly on its own.
Expanding the Music
Alan Menken returned to expand his Oscar®-winning score, collaborating with Sir Tim Rice after the passing of lyricist Howard Ashman. Several new songs were added, enriching the characters and their motivations. One standout is Belle’s emotional solo, “Home,” which inspired Scenic Designer Stan Meyer in his set design for Belle’s room in the Beast’s castle.
Another key addition is “If I Can’t Love Her,” a powerful ballad for the Beast. Menken built it around motifs from the original film’s underscore, giving longtime fans a sense of familiarity while offering new emotional depth. These additions, alongside fan-favorites like “Human Again,” helped the stage show evolve beyond its animated roots.
A Broadway Legacy
With an expanded narrative and elaborate staging, the Beauty and the Beast Broadway musical made history. Its success paved the way for future Disney on Broadway productions. All three key songwriters—Ashman, Menken, and Rice. Would go on to be named Disney Legends, a testament to their enduring impact.
From the billboards in Times Square to its international premieres, this stage version has captivated audiences worldwide. And like the tale itself, it continues to enchant—ever a surprise, always sublime.
