The beloved musical plays the National Theatre through April 5
Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” will be delighting audiences at the National Theatre through April 5, as the lavish production features spectacular new sets, dazzling costumes and the beloved songs that have made the musical a classic for generations.
For Northern Virginia native Ellen Roberts, the production represents something even more meaningful: a dream opportunity just beginning to unfold.
Roberts, who grew up in Alexandria, is part of the company as a swing—a demanding role that requires her to cover multiple ensemble parts and be ready to step on stage at a moment’s notice. The job calls for intense preparation and adaptability, but it is exactly the kind of challenge she relishes as she launches her professional career.
The path that led Roberts to a national tour began early. She started dancing when she was just 3 years old, and by 6, she was studying at the Washington Ballet. From the beginning, performance felt like a natural fit…