Ellen Denny (fifth from left) pictured with some of her Beauty and the Beast cast mates. (Image: Alexander Quon – Metro)

Ellen Denny (BA’12) is in the spotlight this season at Halifax’s Neptune Theatre.

A childhood dream come true

As a child, Denny cherished Disney princesses – particularly Cinderella. The Dalhousie alumna has recently had the opportunity to put her childhood dream into practice by playing a Disney princess onstage.

From August 16 to October 9, Denny stars in a production of Beauty and the Beast at the Neptune Theatre. She plays Belle, the heroine of the play.

Exploring her character

While Denny’s role embodies a different Disney princess than her childhood favourite, it has allowed her to explore the depth of Belle’s character.

“I was really amazed how independent and strong [Disney] made Belle, I think it was a turning point for how Disney portrayed their princesses,” said Denny in an interview with Metro Halifax.

Finding inspiration onstage

Denny draws inspiration from the way that Belle confronts the play’s male characters and thinks fondly of the girls who attend the play in dresses matching hers.

George Pothitos, the play’s artistic director, explains that the production “isn’t just a play about a prince and princess, it’s really a story about finding your individuality.”

Read more in “Tale as old as time: Beauty and the Beast comes to Halifax” on metronews.ca.