Over the last several weeks, Orefield Middle School Theater students have been rehearsing to magically transport "Beauty and the Beast Jr." audience members to France.

That is where, in a small village, a young lady named Belle lives with her father Maurice.

The Orefield thespians will tell the story of Belle, who surrenders her freedom to save her father and the relationship between her and the beast in the castle.

Mackenzie Lynch, portrays Belle, a beautiful and intelligent young lady who seeks adventure.

Alex Atiyeh, plays the beast and prince in this production.

"Belle is feisty and very sweet," Lynch said. "She doesn't really like the village and wants an adventure.

"I like playing Belle because she is kind of like me, but at the same time she is different."

Atiyeh discussed his role as the beast and the prince.

"In the beginning, the beast is really cruel and selfish, then Belle comes and it changes how he treats people," Atiyeh said. "I like how he is really different than me. He is really emotional, so I get to pour out all my emotions into my character."

Atiyeh said the beast is his favorite character .

"I really like this musical," Atiyeh said. "Everybody likes the storyline and it's a fun show to be in. I think it will definitely bring everybody together and the audience will love it."

Max Hakim commented on his role as Gaston, the vain hunter who is determined to marry Belle.

"My character is just cocky and knows he is the most beautiful person ever," Hakim said. "He thinks highly of himself and is a goofball."

He said Gaston makes a shift from fun to evil.

"This is my most favorite role I have ever played," Hakim said. "Fun and evil are the two roles I like to play."

He said playing Gaston is different because he is a strong big macho guy, different than what he has played before.

"This musical has been a blast," Hakim said. "I am really glad to be a part of it, because everyone is really nice and kind."

Reese Diaz, commented on his role as Lumiere, the kind-hearted but rebellious maitre d' to the beast and prince.

"Lumiere is really funny," Diaz said. "He is sometimes good at giving advice and he is usually crazy."

He said he has never played a funny character before and he really likes it and also likes having candles for hands.

"I have been in this show before," Diaz said. "I enjoy it more this time then before. This show is really fun."

This musical is being directed and choreographed by Jonathan Lynch.

Lynch said he picked "Beauty and the Beast Jr.," because it is a classic and has been a favorite of his ever since he was a little kid.

"I choose this musical not only because it is a favorite of mine, I also choose it because I had the pleasure of performing in it at Parkland High School in 2006 as Lefou," Lynch said.

Lynch said "Beauty and the Beast Jr.," tells the story of Belle, who is held captive by a beast and teaches him the true meaning of love.

"Our musical follows the story of the classic Disney movie we all love with some additional magic from Broadway," he said.

Theater students will be performing "Beauty and the Beast Jr." 7 p.m. March 6, 7 and 8; and 2 p.m. March 9 in the middle school auditorium.

Tickets are $5 and will be available for all shows at the door.