Since mid-2023, Australian audiences have been able to fall in love with Disney Theatrical Production’s official Australian production of Beauty and the Beast the Musical, offering the iconic story revolving around beauty being more than what is on the outside, a spectacular cast, and ultimately showing that even if it was the first animated feature film Disney adapted to the stage, they have kept adapting to to the standards of their modern musicals like Aladdin and Frozen, and is well deserving of the accolades it has received. This includes, a ★★★★★ 5-star review from yours truly, which you can read in detail HERE. The production is currently in its final weeks of being performed in Brisbane at the QPAC Lyric Theatre, and from the closing days of next month will be calling Melbourne’s Her Majesty’s Theatre home for the foreseeable future.
Anyone who has enjoyed musicals over the years has very likely seen Jayde Westaby in one if not countless roles, having graced stages in the United Kingdom and Australia over the past 20 years. Her vast variety of roles include Tanya and Donna in Louise Withers and Associates and Matt Ward Entertainment’s productions of Mamma Mia! The Musical respectively, Magenta in Rocky Horror Show, Madame Giry in Opera Australia’s production of Madame Giry, Mrs.Teavee in the Australian touring production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and so many more. Since the middle of last year, Jade Westaby has been touring with Beauty and the Beast the Musical‘s newest Australian national tour, in the beloved role of Mrs. Potts, originally voiced by the late Angela Lansbury in the 1992 animated feature film.
After last interviewing them in 2021, we are honoured that amidst their busy schedule, that Westaby was kind enough to respond to some questions from me about their almost-a-year performing as part of the Beauty and the Beast the Musical cast, what it has been like performing with some of Australia’s future performing arts talent in the role of Chip, and their insights for those looking to enter the performing arts industry. You can read all their insights below!
You have wrapped up the Sydney season of Beauty and the Beast the Musical and are now well into the second leg in Brisbane at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. How has the Australian tour been treating you so far, and as a Queensland local yourself, how have you found performing in your home state?
The tour is going incredibly well thanks. I’m loving playing Mrs. Potts in this big, beautiful production. The audiences are full and so responsive. Sydney was amazing, but performing in Brisbane has been even more special, as Queensland is my home state. I had the pleasure of having so many family and friends here on Opening Night in Brisbane! There is nothing quite like telling this story and then being able to go back home afterwards to be with my family.
You were involved in the musical’s original UK production as the Enchantress. How does it feel after all these years, coming full circle, and playing an iconic role such as Mrs Potts? As someone who has experienced the musical from its roots to modern day, what are some of the substantial changes you have seen with how the musical is performed?
I have to really pinch myself at being given a second chance to be part of Beauty and the Beast, and especially as the iconic Mrs. Potts. I loved it then and I love it again now. Beauty and the Beast has always been spectacular, but now, with this reimagined production, it is just mind blowing. The special effects have been heightened, and the addition of the huge LED screen gives the show so much more variety and depth. The set and costumes have been restyled and look so wonderful too. The ‘big’ numbers are even BIGGER. It’s so impressive. I remember watching Gaston for the first time (again!) in rehearsals last year and jumping to my feet with applause. At its heart, Beauty and the Beast tells this legendary tale with some of the most beautiful music ever written.
Mrs. Potts is beloved for her warmth and wisdom, offering both motherly comfort and moral depth to the story. What aspects of her character do you think resonate most with audiences, and how do you bring out both her endearing and complex qualities in your portrayal?
I think Mrs. Potts is the heart of the story and show, which is such a brilliant responsibility. I love that she is approachable and loved, but she also has an edge to her that says ‘don’t mess with me’, which I show through my mannerisms, vocal quality and choices at times, and the firm but fair voice! With the help of the other ‘Enchanted Objects’ and characters, Mrs. Potts is the one who orchestrates Belle and the Beast spending time together, and ultimately falling in love. I think audiences warm to her kindness and patience, and mothers would relate to the relationship she has with her son Chip, and her motherly relationship with the Beast.
Across the musical, Mrs. Potts is not only pivotal to many scenes, but arguably the show’s titular ballad in the second act, Beauty and the Beast. You really capture the charm of the character through your vocals, and I am curious about how you prepare and maintain your tone and demeanour to keep Mrs. Potts’s charm consistent throughout the entire show?
Thank you. I always try to focus on truthful storytelling. I think once I’m in the costume with the pink wig on and I speak in that Cockney accent, it all just feels right and Mrs. Potts comes flying out! I’ve found I have to be even more clear and expressive in my voice quality and tone, as I don’t have as much freedom to express myself and the character physically while in-costume as a teapot haha!
You are regularly seen on-stage with Mrs. Potts’ child, Chip, portrayed by one of several local children in each city. What has it been like working with these young performers on a daily basis?
All the children who play Chip are incredibly focussed, disciplined and talented. I love that they all bring something unique and different to the role. It is so wonderful to work with them all and get to know them.
Like the other staff of the Beast’s manor, your costuming is iconic. What is it like performing with a spout at the end of your hand?
It is slightly restrictive and challenging. I hold my left arm up in the spout position for the entire show, which is hard work, so I have to stay fit and strong. I think the longest scene I hold my arm up for is about eight minutes and thirty seconds, and it’s definitely sore after that one!
Can you recall your earliest memories of Beauty and the Beast? Why do you think the story, and especially the musical adaptation, continues to resonate so strongly with audiences around the world?
Of course I remember the animated feature, but my main memory of Beauty and the Beast would be the musical version, particularly performing it in 2001 in England. I think it’s a story of love and transformation which will always be relevant and resonate with audiences. Also, there is nothing quite like live musical theatre, so that element takes it to the next level. The story and characters are so well known which is wonderful, but also heightens the responsibility to deliver.
With your rich experience in musical theatre, what advice would you offer to aspiring performers who dream of exploring a career in the performing arts sector?
When I trained many years ago in London, it was drummed into me that I had to be versatile and the best I could possibly be in all areas of musical theatre. I had to sing, dance and act to a high standard. I live by that rule and try to encourage anyone to do the same. It opens up more opportunities and possibilities for employment and variety of work. Never stop learning! Also always be professional and hold yourself to a high standard. Be confident in your uniqueness and what you have to offer.
With over two decades of experience on-stage, what do you love most about the industry, and what has kept you performing for so long?
I love that I never stop learning and growing. Every job, show and role is a challenge. It’s scary and hard and brilliantly rewarding. Performing is all I’ve ever known. I started dancing when I was two and I have always wanted to perform. I’m living out my dream.
Rapid-Fire Questions
Favourite song in Beauty and the Beast the Musical (Can be one of yours, can be another)
‘Beauty and the Beast’ (I’m so lucky).
Favourite moment in the show?
The ‘Gaston’ number in Act One.
Favourite piece of choreography in the show?
‘Be Our Guest’ – a true showstopper.
Favourite costume in the show in general?
Babette. The feathers!
Favourite piece of staging / set design?
The scrolls that fly through the air. You’ll have to see the show to know what I mean.
Favourite moment with the cast/crew?
When Chip runs out to hug Mrs. Potts at the end!
First impressions when walking into rehearsals on the first day?
I was so impressed by the talent of our cast at the first reading of the show.
Do you have a favourite pre-show ritual or routine?
I don’t have a favourite pre-show ritual but I definitely follow a routine that makes me feel physically and vocally prepared to perform each show.
Favourite fun fact about Beauty and the Beast the Musical’s Australian tour?
During our Sydney season, every Saturday night at interval Alana Tranter who plays Madame would go around backstage with her lolly box and hand out sweets for a sugar hit!
Favourite moment of the tour so far?
Sharing this show with my husband and son, and having them there on Opening Night in Brisbane.
Favourite Disney Animated Work?
I love The Lion King, The Little Mermaid and obviously Beauty and the Beast!
If you had the opportunity to fill another role in Beauty and the Beast the Musical for one night, with no limitations, what role would that be?
GASTON! In the Australian production, the iconic role is played by the incredibly talented Jackson Head.
What is something that people might miss on for their first watch of Beauty and the Beast the Musical but should keep an eye out for.
The petals falling from the rose could be missed, but it’s so enchanting and beautiful. Keep an eye out!
I would like to extend my sincerest gratitude to Jayde Westaby for being so generous with their time and sharing such interesting thoughts and insights to these questions. I wish them all the very best as they conclude the production’s Brisbane season, the upcoming Melbourne season and opportunities which follow on from that.
Special thanks must also go to Disney Theatrical Productions Australia and the show’s publicity team at Peach and Pineapple for facilitating this opportunity!
Want more insights? You can read our interview with Shubshri Kandiah (Belle) from 2023 HERE, and my 2024 interviews with Jackson Head (Gaston) HERE, Rohan Browne (Lumiere) HERE and Gareth Jacobs (Cogsworth) HERE. We are hoping to facilitate even more interviews in the future, so please watch this space.
Tickets to see the Brisbane (QPAC, Lyric Theatre) and Melbourne (Her Majesty’s Theatre) seasons of Beauty and the Beast the Musical are currently on-sale, with ticketing information for both states available via the musical’s official Australian website. Beauty and the Beast the Musical will conclude its Brisbane season on 9 June 2024, and will open at Melbourne’s Her Majesty’s Theatre starting 27 June 2024. Tickets for the Melbourne season are on-sale for all performances up to and including 27 October 2024 as of writing.
