It’s a series that’s a local tradition, extending back more than 50 years. But even traditions change with time, and this is the first year that Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” has been staged in the Wells Fargo Pavilion. It’s this summer’s family production, meaning half price tickets for youngsters, and the kids were out in force on Tuesday – especially the girls. That’s because the leading character is a spunky, confident, altogether charming young lady named Belle, played here by the very likeable actress Nikki Renée Daniels, who’s new to Music Circus.

(Excerpt)

If you need a baseline comparison for this character, think of Dorothy in “The Wizard of Oz.” Doors seem to open when she strides up to them, and when she speaks plainly, people listen, because she’s telling the truth. She dominates this two-and-a-half hour show, which brims with silly jokes, musical production numbers, and a magic spell that resolves just in time for a big happy ending.

“Beauty and the Beast” hits the spot as reliable family entertainment, and the show will be at the Wells Fargo Pavilion through July 17.