This project is a real Beast.

We mean that in two ways: this stage production is a mammoth undertaking, and the title of said production is “Beauty and the Beast.”

For the first time, WATERFORDrama is taking on a Disney musical, and it comes loaded with challenges, the most obvious of which is creating a whimsical, once-animated world on a high school stage.

Director Shane Valle notes that students have long asked him about doing a Disney musical, and now, after 15 years, it’s happening.

“I wanted to try and get our audience back. I wanted to do a show with so much name recognition that it would inspire people to leave their homes, get off their electronic devices and go see some great theater,” Valle said in a statement.

“Beauty and the Beast” will come complete with all of its iconic characters (Belle and the Beast, of course, but also everyone from Gaston to Lumiere to Mrs. Potts) and all of its familiar songs.

So go ahead and — say it all together now — be their guest.

“Beauty and the Beast,” 7 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, Waterford High School auditorium, Rope Ferry Road; if bought in advance, $12 for adults, $7 for students; at the door, $15 for adults, $10 for students; (860) 437-6956, ext. 7407, or buy them at Waterford High School during regular school hours.