Beauty and the Beast

A story about a beautiful young maiden falling in love with a hideous beast seems to be a tale as old as time. Beauty and the Beast: A Fairy Extravaganza In Two Acts by J. R. Planche provides a Victorian take on the tale that blends in intriguing elements.

Planche's script was first performed as a play in 1841. It has beautiful Victorian English styling. As expected, there is a beauty and a beast. This version of the story also has a conflicted father, two evil sisters, and a queen, along with moments of great tragedy:

"All is lost now - Oh, for me, the sun is set forever -

This poor heart in future never

One hope of bliss can see."

This version of Beauty and the Beast is not the same one you enjoyed as a child. Despite any differences there remains an enjoyable story containing the key elements of any good fairy tale romance. It is the right match for anyone that enjoyed Beauty and the Beast as a child. More than just a romance story, it is entertaining and complex, and it has more mature themes that will provoke a multitude of emotions.