BIDDEFORD –Disney’s Beauty and the Beast JR. is playing at Biddeford Middle School’s Performing Arts Center on Thursday, March 23 and Friday, March 24 at 6:30 p.m. each evening.

Both shows are free and open to the public. Seating is general admission, with doors opening at 6 p.m.

  The 60-minute musical, designed for middle school-aged performers, is based on the 1994 Broadway production and Disney’s 1991 animated feature film. The Biddeford Middle School Drama Club’s cast includes 70 students led by Coleen Hatt.

“The students have worked very hard to learn the music, choreography, and roles for Beauty and the Beast JR.,” said Hatt.  “We have a wonderful show and are very excited to share this musical with our community!”

Beauty and the Beast JR. tells the story of Belle, an adventurous young girl, and the Beast, her hideous captor, who is actually a young prince trapped under a spell. In order to break the spell, the Beast must learn to love another and earn her love in return – before time runs out.  With the help of the castle’s enchanted staff, including a loving teapot, a charming candelabra, and a nervous mantel clock, Belle and the Beast find a beautiful friendship and love that neither knew was possible. Beauty and the Beast JR. features classic songs from the Academy Award-winning film score such as “Be Our Guest” and “Belle,” as well as original songs from the 1994 Tony-nominated Broadway musical.