Odds & Ends: Lin-Manuel Miranda Discusses Moana, Audra McDonald's New Beauty Song & More

Here's a quick roundup of stories you may have missed today and over the weekend.

Tony Winner Lin-Manuel Miranda Discusses Moana Inspirations
As you're no doubt very much aware of by now, Disney's upcoming Moana features songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda. "We drew upon the Pacific islands' rich musical cultures," the Hamilton mastermind reveals about the team's inspirations in the below featurette. "The diversity of music in this part of the world formed, what I think, is a great score." You'll be able to see the film in movie theaters from November 23; in the meantime check out a just released number from the project, “We Know the Way,” which is written and performed by Opetaia Foa‘i and Miranda, here.



Audra McDonald's New Beauty and the Beast Song
Remaining in the mouse house for a moment, as befitting a five-time Tony winner, the upcoming Beauty and the Beast remake will feature a new tune for Audra McDonald, who takes on the role of Madame De Garderobe. “It’s a moment within the prologue, just before the spell befalls the castle.” Alan Menken told EW. “We’re actually at an event at the Prince’s castle, where the Prince is about to be turned into the Beast, and he’s in his very selfish and self-indulgent phase of his life, and we see that, and we have the magnificent Audra McDonald singing this number.” Headlined by Emma Watson, the movie is slated for release on March 17, 2017 and we can’t wait!

Carrie St. Louis & Andrew Lippa Set for Swan Lake
Former Glinda, Carrie St. Louis, will face off against former Elphaba, Carrie Manolakos, as White Swan Odette and Black Swan Odile, respectively, in Swan Lake the Musical: Live in Concert. Directed by Sammi Cannold and also starring Tony nominee Andrew Lippa as Rothbart, the rival emperor, Seibert & Lundquist’s show is based on the legends that inspired Tchaikovsky’s famous ballet. The one-night-only event is scheduled for December 17 at Hollywood’s Montalbán Theater.

Don't Throw Away Your Shot!
The election is almost over! Check out the below video, "My Vote,” which is based on the song “My Shot,” from Hamilton and produced, filmed and edited by Broadway.com's photographer Emilio Madrid-Kuser. What comes next? We'll find out tomorrow!