The Beauty in Belle

MANILA, Philippines - In an interview for The Philippine STAR, we asked the lovely Hilary Maiberger, who plays the female lead Belle in the Disney musical Beauty and the Beast currently playing at the Cultural Center of the Philippines Main Theater, some questions on her role and what her impressions are on Beauty. Incidentally, we found out from the grapevine that she and the male lead Darick Pead, who is portraying the Beast, are in real life... sweethearts. Read on.

How much of Hilary is in the character Belle? 

“A hundred percent of me is in this character. I have to make her believable, honest and grounded.” 

What was it like when you first found out you got the role for Belle?

“It was an amazing surprise. It had been weeks since I had auditioned and I figured it was time to move on and accept the fact that I didn’t get the role. I got the call and my heart was full. This role and opportunity has completely changed my life. I am so incredibly grateful.” 

In real life, would you go for a not-so-good-looking man for a lifetime partner?

“For me, it’s what’s on the inside that counts. If he loves me for all that I am, including the quarks and imperfections and vice versa, then nothing else matters.” 

If you were given the opportunity to do a version of Beauty and the Beast in a foreign language, would you accept the offer knowing you will have to re-learn everything in a new language?

“Oh gosh! That would be such an interesting experience! I think it would be an amazing opportunity and would absolutely take some time to learn a new language, but I think if I were offered the opportunity I wouldn’t pass it up.”

What is it in this Disney production that sets it apart from other musical productions you’ve been involved in? 

“It’s the story and the characters’ journey that makes this production stand out. It’s a message that transcends all cultures and languages and that is something truly special. People come see the show and expect to see a recreation of these fictional characters, bright lights and costumes but they quickly realize it’s so much more than that. They begin to realize how real these characters are and start to relate and make realizations that affect their lives. That’s what    makes this Disney production so magical.” 

What is your ultimate dream role?

“Oh gosh, that’s a hard one. I have had so many great roles checked off but I’d still love to play Christine Daee in Phantom of the Opera.”  

Define beauty?

“It has to do with your soul and your heart, not the color of your eyes or the shape of your body. It’s all the things that make you unique. That’s what beauty is to me.” 

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned after doing Beauty and  the Beast that you want to share to the audience? 

“Never judge a book by its cover and always stay true to yourself.” 

Who to you is the most beautiful?

“My dad. He is the most caring human being I know. He loves everyone for all that they are and never puts himself first. He truly is the best man I know.” 

What are your immediate plans after touring for Beauty and the Beast?

“I will be taking on the Big Apple and hope to start a musical theater career there.” 

Can you share your first impressions of the Philippines?

“I didn’t know what to expect but I immediately was comfortable because of the wonderful hospitality. The people here are so kind and they welcomed me with open arms.”

(Disney’s Beauty and the Beast is being staged at the CCP Main Theater until Feb. 1 at 8 p.m. with matinees at 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. It is presented by Disney Theatrical Productions, Inc., NETworks, Broadway Entertainment Group, MKFAE and Ovation Production and supported by Globe Business, VISA, FOX International Channels, Diamond Hotel, The Philippine STAR, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Manila Bulletin and BusinessWorld. Tickets are priced at P7,895, P6,845, P5,790, P4,740, P4,210, P3,160 and P2,105, plus applicable service charges. They are available at Ticketworld outlets [891-9999] and online at www.ticketworld.com.ph, beautyandthebeast.com.ph and Facebook.com/beautyandbeastph.)