Thirty years ago, a tale as old as time made its way to the stage—and forever changed Broadway. Disney’s Beauty and the Beast opened at the Palace Theatre in New York City on April 18, 1994. The production marked Disney Theatrical Productions’ Broadway debut and turned the beloved animated film into a stage phenomenon. With unforgettable songs, imaginative staging, and timeless characters, the show helped launch what is now known as Disney on Broadway.
Behind the Curtain of a Broadway Milestone
The show was helmed by an exceptional creative team that included lighting designer Natasha Katz, director/choreographer Matt West, and actress Susan Egan, who originated the role of Belle. For Katz, Beauty and the Beast was a defining career moment. She recalls how the objectivity of producers Michael Eisner and Jeffrey Katzenberg helped shape the show’s development. That guidance influenced her creative lens for decades to follow.
Matt West, who had worked on several Disney projects, campaigned to bring Disney to Broadway despite initial resistance. When Eisner eventually suggested Beauty and the Beast, the project took off. West described it as one of the most thrilling moments of his life, marking the start of a new era in theatrical storytelling.
Susan Egan initially didn’t see herself as Belle, but a spontaneous audition won over the casting team. She got the call the same day and rented the animated film to watch it for the first time. The casting choices, she later learned, were unanimous and swift—each actor felt destined for their role.
A Heartfelt Impact That Still Resonates
Beauty and the Beast brought Broadway audiences something new: a full-scale, family-friendly musical with Hollywood roots. The production bridged animation and stagecraft, inspiring future Disney on Broadway hits like The Lion King, Aladdin, and Frozen.
According to Katz, Disney on Broadway also brought global experiences and creative trust that influenced her future work. For West, revisiting the production over the years has helped the show stay relevant, with new script refinements made by original screenwriter Linda Woolverton. For Egan, the experience was a fairy-tale come true, from the custom-fitted gowns to the deep level of care shown by every team member.
A Legacy That Continues to Grow
Now celebrating its 30th anniversary, Beauty and the Beast remains a landmark production. It currently runs on tour in Australia and Tokyo, with a newly reimagined North American tour launching in summer 2025. It proved that Disney could conquer Broadway and set the foundation for decades of magical storytelling on stage.
