I won't pretend I'm not biased towards the role of the Beast here...it is a wonderful role, and when listening to and/or watching the show, my attention is usually focused on him. So, most of these performers are those that have played that role.

Terrence Mann. My first exposure to the stage show was with the Original Broadway Cast recording, and his Beast was just wonderful!! Is there anything this man can't do?! His "If I Can't Love Her" is still my favourite, and I absolutely ADORE the part where he says "Told you so". :-)

Steve Blanchard. He was the first man I have seen play the Beast on stage, and I was worried he wouldn't compare to the other fabulous performers I had heard on various recordings. Well, I shouldn't have spent a second worrying about it! He was just incredible!! He had me in tears a number of times, which is always the best test of a performer! :-) And he was so sweet and funny as well. I really enjoyed his performance! Find out more at Steve Blanchard Online.

Ethan Freeman. He was the Beast in Vienna, and there is a recording of him in that role, though I've only had the chance to hear small clips of it so far. He does sing "If I Can't Love Her" on his solo CD, and that's all it took to convince me that he would be an amazing Beast! For more information on Ethan, please visit the Ethan Freeman website!

James Barbour. Yet another great Beast! He was featured in the "Beauty and the Beast On Ice" special, and his wonderful voice had me hooked! The small bit of acting that was permitted in that special also made a big impression on me. I'm sure he was great on stage!! For more information about James, see the Official James Barbour Web Page.

Grant Norman. I saw him as the Beast on tour, and after hearing nothing but raves about his Phantom, I was expecting a lot out of his performance. And he definitely delivered! His voice is just beautiful, and his portrayal of the Beast was both powerful and moving. I would love to see his Phantom someday!! Much more can be found at the Official Grant Norman Web Site.

Susan Egan. She is Belle on the Broadway recording as well as on the previously mentioned skating special. I love her voice, and many of my friends would not believe me that this WASN'T the woman who played Belle in the movie! :-) I didn't see her in this show, but I did see her in Cabaret, and she was fabulous! For more about Susan, visit The Official Susan Egan Home Page.