RESERVE — River Parish Community Theatre’s “Beauty and the Beast” sold out July 8, five days in advance of the show’s opening, which was Friday.

“For the first time in the long and rich history of summer musicals in the River Parishes, a show has sold out its seating chart before the show opens,” a River Parish Community Theatre release said.

The theater company presented “Annie” last year to numerous sold out audiences, “but never before has a show sold out before the opening curtain,” according to River Parish Community Theatre.

“We are humbled and thankful for this outpouring of support from the community,” said John LeBlanc, RPCT president. “Clearly our commitment to pushing musical theater forward in the River Parishes is paying off, both for us and the community. We expect the crowds to be very pleased with the show, the incredible set we have constructed and the overall experience.”

In an effort to allow as many patrons to enjoy the show as possible, RPCT has announced it is offering a limited number of overflow seats for each show. Each show date the box office will open one hour before curtain.

At that time those in line will be able to purchase seats for that performance only. Tickets will be $15, cash only, and when the allotted number of seats are sold, there will be no more tickets sold for that performance.

“Beauty and the Beast” continues July 14-15 and 18-21 at St. Peter School in Reserve.

All performances begin at 7:30, except the July 15 show, which is a 2:30 p.m. matinee.