Political humour and palancing were the order of the night at the Naparima Bowl, San Fernando, as the Crazy Catholic (Sheldon Narine) and DC Shell Theatre staged Beauty and the Beast with a touch of Trini flavour. The Crazy Catholic said: "This is a story where good always overcomes evil and true love conquers all. It is based on the original Beauty and the Beast. The witch places a curse on the castle because of the arrogance of the servants and the master. "She declared that unless he learns to love the curse will be permanent. It is difficult because of his appearance and aggressive manner. With Belle and her open-mindedness, however, they did fall in love which lifted the curse."
The story is the familiar one, with Beauty, daughter of a merchant who has accidentally offended a hideous Beast, agrees to live with him forever in order to save her father's life. Ultimately, Beauty's kindness and virtuosity melt the Beast's heart and reveals the handsome prince buried underneath his furry exterior. During the play we encounter the local version of the characters such as Zedan (candle); Clockers; Dusty; Mrs Potts; and, her daughter Kim Lee (teapot). There is also Frankie Fryfish who is determined to marry Belle. She, however, despises him because of his vanity and self-importance.�
Another humorous character, Creeks Rivers, is introduced. She is desperately in love with Frankie and dances for him saying she will be his private dancer. Frankie says that she could be his dancer if she pays him two million. Creeks replies, "But I already bought the flag." In the end Frankie is eaten by wolves after spurning Creeks again and she goes off with one of his henchmen Maddo. The production was tailored for children as it contained enough references to the fairy tale for them to understand and enjoy. The political picong made it more relatable to the adult audience. There was an element of interaction with the audience, which thrilled children, as the Beast ran through the audience looking for Belle.