When Poppa's cargo ships sank in a storm, he, Angeline (Beauty), and her two selfish sisters are forced to move to a small village of stilt houses in the Louisiana swamps. This version offers just enough Cajun flavor in both story and song (which can be emphasized or toned down) to keep interest at a high peak while closely following every move in the original fairy tale. When Angeline's sisters foil her attempt to return to the castle, a fantasy-like alligator and pelican, as well as a bumbling but well-meaning suitor, create rapid-fire action by delivering the dying Beast to the village just as he turns into Gabriel, a wealthy man who asks Angeline to marry him. The sisters are turned into statues until they repent, and the villagers begin to celebrate.

This 2-act musical play for youngsters opened at the University of South Alabama in Mobile where author Eugene Jackson reports 5,000 or more students are bussed in for premier performances which result in improved, revised scripts for publication. The action takes place in the Bayou area of South Louisianna; the time is 1830's. Special effects: a squirting frog, flashing lights, flash pot and smoke.

From teachers and parents: "My five-year-old was totally captivated by the play." "I've been bringing my students to your shows for 15 years, and this is the best one yet!"

Other Jackson musical adaptations: Babes in Toyland, Hunting of the Snark, Pinocchio, The Secret Garden, The Wizard of Oz (musical & non-musical), You're a Grand Old Flag