MONTICELLO, NY — Austin-Michael Komat (The Beast) wasn’t concerned about frightening seven-month-old Cheyenne during a “Beauty and the Beast” pre-show meet and greet because “she’s my niece,” he explained to the crowd.

They were part of the scene at a Monticello High School student performance of the musical on April 10. For Jonathan Fox’s take on the show, and more goings on in the region, turn to page 16.