March in Maine can bring many things from snow storms to March Madness, and it is also the time for the annual Gorham Middle School (GMS) musical.
For several years, Tana Krohn and Gregg Walton have co-directed many superb productions. Past shows have included “Legally Blonde” and last year’s, “The Little Mermaid.” This year, they continued the Disney theme with “Beauty and the Beast,” the well-known and loved story about finding something that is more than skin deep.
Kate Dupuis, an eighth grader at GMS, starred as Belle, singing familiar songs with sweet perfection accented by many dancing scenes. When asked what her favorite part was, she enthusiastically said “the dancing.” She hopes to continue performing in high school and will be able to bring her bubbly personality to a new and different stage.
Opposite Kate, eighth grader Sam D’Amico portrayed the Beast bringing gruffness and more amazing vocals to the character. He is unsure where his music will take him for high school but loved “probably everything” about the show.
Aiden Lizotte (eighth grade) also had a starring role as Gaston, perfectly depicting the cocky character, even down to the walk. Lefou was played by sixth grader Aiden Fortier, who also brought some amazing dance moves to the song “Be Our Guest.” Corinna Hahn (seventh grade) starred as Lumiere; Julia Ordway (eighth grade) as Cogsworth; and Emelia Bailey (seventh grade) displayed her known operatic talent and range in singing as Mrs. Potts.
Despite the many interruptions and delays due to snow days, the show was extremely well put together, and every scene contained something special that kept you wanting more. With the largest ensemble the middle school has seen yet, over 60 members, the full cast scenes brought a depth of energy and passion.
Gorham Middle School’s 2018 production was certainly a sight to see.