BALTIMORE (WJZ)—A classical story brought to life on stage. This week, Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” premiered at the Hippodrome.

Monique Griego caught up with Belle and The Beast.

It seems everyone knows the story of “Beauty and the Beast,” but even if you’ve seen the movie or read the story, the actors playing these iconic characters say nothing compares to watching it live.

It’s a love story, comedy and drama wrapped up into one classic fairy tale.

On Tuesday night, Disney’s hit Broadway musical “Beauty and the Beast” premiered at the Hippodrome.

“We had a great audience. They laughed. They cried. They cheered and just lots of little girls in little yellow dresses which just warms my heart every night,” said Hilary Maiberger.

Maiberger plays the iconic role of Belle, a girl who befriends The Beast and is able to see through his flaws and fall in love.

“There’s some pressure playing Belle because it’s such an iconic role and she’s so, so just a heroine,” Maiberger said.

As for The Beast, under all the makeup and prosthetics is Darick Pead. He believes the play’s message about appreciating inner beauty is even more relevant today.

“It’s kind of cool to be able to tell the story of what true love is. True love isn’t about what’s on the outside,” Pead said.

While kids love the music, costumes and characters, both actors say adults can’t help but sing along and get caught up in the story.

“The adults will find a lot of humor and laughter in it,” Pead said. “It’s something they connect with it as well.”

“If you love the movie, you’ll love the show. I promise you that,” Maiberger said.

“Beauty and the Beast” premiered Tuesday and runs through Feb. 3. It has evening shows all this week and two shows on Saturday and Sunday.