Madame, played by Mars high schooler Bethany Harmon, talks with Ryanne Palermo and her daughter Amelia, 2.

MIDDLESEX TWP — Dozens of families made the early morning drive to Glade Run Church Saturday for a breakfast with the cast of the Mars High Schools' production of "Beauty and the Beast."

After an opening number of "Be Our Guest," scores of cast members served breakfast to the tables, engaging with children and their families.

Jennifer Kennedy, musical director, said with the interest around the production they thought it'd be nice to engage area children before the event.

The children thought so too, with many youngsters coming in costume, ready to talk and take pictures with the high school actors.

This is an excerpt — the full story will appear in the Butler Eagle.