Pittsburgh Ballet’s ‘Beauty and the Beast’ Onstage at Benedum; Grand Finale of Pat McArdle’s Art Show Series (Sat., 2/24/24)

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (ballet) by Lew Christensen, to music by Peter Ilych Tchaikovsky.  Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre. Through February 25. 

Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre is performing the classic tale of ‘Beauty and the Beast.’ Pictured here are Colin McCaslin and Marisa Grywalski. (Photo: Rieder Photography)

1) The “Beauty and the Beast” fantasy tale has been dramatized in various forms, and opinions are divided on which version is best. Many with high-art tastes prefer Jean Cocteau’s haunting black and white film of 1946, in French with English subtitles, while many more go for the Disney animated movie. And, unbeknownst to most, a smaller but enthusiastic third party has emerged. They are dance fans who love the Beauty and the Beast ballet. The ballet is a modern one—created and choreographed in 1958 by Lew Christensen for the San Francisco Ballet, where he was the director, and set to arrangements from Tchaikovsky’s music. Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre dances Christensen’s Beauty and the Beast at Benedum Center this month. It’s a thrill ride for the senses, as the story lends itself to dance. Powerful scenes in the Cocteau film were built around the actors’ entrancing, dance-like movements, with little or no dialogue. Christensen took the concept all the way and then some, adding scenes that include enchanted forest animals and a rousing wedding dance at the end. 2 and 7:30 p.m. 237 7th St., Cultural District. (M.V.)

‘The Old Man Dreams of Love’ by Robert Qualters.

2) Art connoisseur/collector Pat McArdle  has curated eight one-night shows composed of works from his collection—some of which date back to the 1920’s. Each exhibition is uniquely themed and have over 40 original works. Tonight’s exhibition is the grand finale of the Live•Worship•Shop series and features Patrick’s Picks featuring over 100 works from his collection. 6 to 9 p.m. tonight and 1-4 p.m. tomorrow. McArdle will also be giving a storytelling talk on his art collecting adventures at 2 p.m. tomorrow. John A. Hermann Memorial Art Museum, 318 Lincoln Avenue, Bellevue. (R.H.)

‘Shenango Steel’ by John Cleaveland.

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