MOBILE, Ala. — Mobile’s Playhouse in the Park will present an all-new original staging of the favorite “Beauty and the Beast” at the Saenger Theater in downtown Mobile on March 4 and 5.

The beloved classic French fairy tale is about Belle, a lovely maiden who promises her allegiance to a frightening, lonely beast in order to save her father’s life.

A cast of nearly 100 local youth ranging from ages 6–20s will perform this original production with music and lyrics by Managing Director Danny Mollise and Musical Director Scott Jolly.

The Playhouse original musical version takes place in antebellum New Orleans with a Mardi Gras theme. As the story unfolds, the Beast’s true inner beauty is ultimately uncovered through Belle’s love, patience and sacrifice.

Nationally acclaimed author Thomas Lakeman adapted the script for this performance.

“All along the Gulf Coast, Mardi Gras is a magical time of year,” says Lakeman. “So we thought it made perfect sense to place this classic French fairy tale in the French-speaking bayous of Louisiana during the height of carnival season. Our antebellum New Orleans setting features masked balls, parades, cajuns, and even a Mardi Gras king.”

Showtimes for schools are 9 and 11:30 a.m. March 4 and 9 a.m. March 5.

The public performance is March 5 at 7:30 p.m..

Call (251) 602-0630 for more information or to make your reservations.