It's a tale as old as time, but St John’s Academy in Marlborough breathed new life into the Disney classic Beauty and the Beast last week with an energetic performance for the whole family.

For those few not familiar with the story, it’s the tale of Belle, a girl who is dissatisfied with life in a small French town, constantly trying to fend off the affections of the conceited Gaston.

There is also a prince, who is transformed into the Beast for judging a beggar woman on her appearance, while his servants became household items.

Only when he learns to love another and earns their love can the spell be broken.

The lead roles were played by Rosie Amos (Belle) and Sam Austen (Beast), who both put in a good performance – and Sam had a very strong singing voice.

Lumiére, played by Ed France, was one of the highlights of the show, adding to the humour, and he maintained his French accent throughout.

He gelled well with Luke Shields (Cogsworth), with whom he shared most scenes, and the pair made a convincing double act.

Flora Nisbet had just the right amount of sass for her character Babette, the castle’s maid-cum-feather duster.

The star of the show was Will Sexton, who had Gaston’s arrogance down to a tee, with a brilliant singing voice.

He was well accompanied by sidekick Le Fou, played by George Havill.

Bar a few glitches, this was a thoroughly enjoyable production.