The Cultch presents the world premiere of Niall McNeil’s Beauty and the Beast: My Life, which will play at the Historic Theatre from March 28 to April 6, 2025.

Part fantasy, part reality, with huge dollops of whimsy, Beauty and The Beast: My Life transports audiences into a vibrant realm that references Disney and Cocteau but charts its own unique narrative path through Niall’s experiences and multi-faceted art practice.

Niall McNeil identifies as a practicing artist with Down Syndrome. From a young age, he has explored the arts through acting, writing, painting and music. He has worked professionally in theatre for many years and is known for his collaborative performances. His plays Peter Panties and King Arthur’s Night, co-written with Marcus Youssef, with music by Veda Hille—were acclaimed by audiences and critics alike. Both went on to win Jessie Richardson Awards.

Beauty and the Beast: My Life was created by Veda Hille, Billy Marchenski, Sophia Wolfe, Kate Franklin, and Peter Anderson. It combines movement and music with McNeil’s paintings, lyrics, and dialogue. Along with creating the play, McNeil will make his directorial debut with this world premiere—trying out this new role for the first time in his lauded career.