Victoria Huggins, a former Miss North Carolina and the upcoming female lead in McGregor Hall Performing Arts Center’s production of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast,” was invited to “be our guest” on WIZS’ Town Talk program.

Huggins, who is originally from Robeson County, will step into the shoes of the spunky and intelligent Belle, a girl who loves to read and whose head is always full of adventure. Belle finds herself on just such an adventure when her father is captured by a hideous beast who lives in an enchanted castle deep in the woods. When Belle courageously takes her father’s place as prisoner, she learns there is so much more to the beast, played by Vance County resident Jonathan O’Geary, than meets the eye.

Huggins, whose many accomplishments include performing as a child in the Alabama Theatre’s Christmas productions, being crowned Miss North Carolina in 2017, competing in the Miss America pageant and auditioning for American Idol, said her current role is truly special. “This is a dream role for me,” said Huggins. “I’ve looked up to Belle ever since I could walk.”

In addition to Huggins and O’Geary, the large cast of characters includes Josh Glasscock as Cogsworth; Brian Westbrook as Lumiere; Jackson Hopper as LeFou, Shana Fisher as Mrs. Potts; Lilly Hicks and Eva Hopper sharing the role of Chip and even McGregor Hall’s Technical Director Matt Nowell as the villain Gaston.

“It’s pretty cool to see him come from behind the scenes into the spotlight,” Huggins remarked of Nowell.

According to Huggins, the live orchestra and professional costumes and sets provided by the National Broadway Tour, along with the venue itself, will create a magical atmosphere and will really bring the well-beloved characters to life.

“I fell in love with the venue immediately, not only because of the breathtaking stage and seats, but it’s attached to the library,” said Huggins. “I think it is fantastic how people are connected to the arts here in Henderson.”

“Beauty and the Beast” will be performed at McGregor Hall, 201 Breckenridge St. in downtown Henderson, at 8 p.m. on October 26 & 27 and November 2 & 3. There will also be a 2 p.m. Sunday matinee performance on October 28 and November 4.

Tickets are still available and may be purchased by:

DROP IN: 201 Breckenridge Street, Henderson, N.C. Monday – Friday 1:30 – 5:30 p.m

CALL: (252) 598-0662 (M-F 1:30 – 5:30 p.m.)

CLICK HERE: www.McGregorHall.org  (Use the eTix official site, online fees apply)

For those with children or grandchildren who love “Beauty and the Beast,” Chick-fil-A of Henderson will host a “Crafts with Belle” night tomorrow evening at 5 p.m. Huggins will be on hand to participate in crafts and activities.

Also, don’t miss “Tea with Belle” on Saturday, October 27 & November 3 at 2 p.m. at McGregor Hall. Children will have the opportunity to have tea on stage with Belle and see her in her ballgown.

Huggins said she is excited about these upcoming events and can’t wait for everyone to see what’s in store for the performances.

“Everybody is going to be blown away by this show.”

Listen to the interview in its entirety by clicking here.