Johnston, SC – A large ensemble cast of talented actors and performers alongside a dedicated parent and community support team is preparing a “magical” experience for patrons beginning Saturday, November 5, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. when Strom Thurmond High School (STHS) Theatre presents the classic Disney tale “Beauty and the Beast”.

Additional showtimes are Sunday, November 6, 2022 at 3:30 p.m., Saturday, November 12, 2022, at 7:00 p.m., and Sunday, November 13, 2022, at 3:30 p.m. Tickets may be purchased online at www.sttheatre.ludus.com. 

The production is led by STHS Theatre director Steven McKinney, choreographer Julia Crider, musical director Clare Henry and assistant director Tyler McKinney. Lead actors include Ella Mathis Miller in the role of Belle, Dawson Kulp as the Beast, Daniel Mims as Gaston, Lillian Cockrell as Mrs. Potts, Jessie Dampier as LeFou, Colton Johnson as Maurice, Tobias Knight as Lumiere, Reece Lowe as the Baker, Truman Massey as Chip, Nathan Milling as D’Arque, Kiersten Skinner as Babette, Lilly Smith as the Enchantress, Jari Smith as Cogsworth, Brandon Thomas as the Prince and Cara Williams as the Wardrobe. 

“It takes a huge team to put this show on so we are very excited for everyone to see it,” stated Mr. McKinney prior to the cast’s first rehearsal in costume Monday (Oct. 24). “Any time you put on a show like this it’s stressful, of course, but it’s also lots of fun. It’s a big community effort and lots of hard work, but we think everyone will enjoy it. Our students have worked very hard and we have some really good performers.”

“There are going to be some magical moments,” McKinney added. “It’s going to be wonderful.”

Additional cast members include Mina Allen, Riley Brightharp, Ayden Culver, Natalie Dolph, Shamarion Freeman, Chloe Galloway, Molly Harling, Karalynn Hecker, Cleo Heitmann, Breylie Hodson, Shakyla Jones, Jericka Jones-Mason, Lily Latham, Dixie Latham, Carter Massey, Olivia O’Gorman, Michaela Owen, Makayla Rushton, Sunasia Saxon, Chief Spicer, Mason Toothman, Jenasys Washington, Cara Williams, Harmony Williams-Talbert, Allie Wise, and Lila Wood.

“A lot of our cast are also part of marching band and other organizations as well which makes it even better because it really shows the diversity of our kids and all they participate in,” commented McKinney. “We work hard to give the students a little bit of Broadway. That’s always been the goal for as many years as I’ve been doing this.”