While most are familiar with Disney's 1950 film "Cinderella," the stage version of the tale, imagined by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein, is a little different. Highlighting the importance of kindness, diplomacy, and equality of classes, "Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella" is a version of the story that all should see.
Performed at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts on December 13 through 25, "Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella" took audience members to a world of fantasy that included princes slaying giant cockroaches. The show stayed mostly true to the familiar story of a young girl living with a mean stepmother and two stepsisters who, with the help of a fairy godmother, goes to a prince's ball, drops a shoe and ends up marrying into the royal family. However, there are a few alterations to this version that made the story much more intriguing.
The performance of Ella (Cinderella) was given by Tatyana Lubov—a strong soprano who easily portrayed the young, sweet princess-to-be gave a gentle quality to the show through her elegant dancing and fluid voice. Prince Topher, portrayed by Hayden Stanes, added comic relief to the already child-friendly show and Stanes' strong voice, especially in "Ten Minutes Ago" and "Do I Love You Because You're Beautiful," were enough to make your heart melt.
The scenic design of the show wasn't overpowering and provided a realistic interpretation of a forest, town square, cottage and palace. Lighting, including perfectly timed blackouts and spotlights, aided in the flow of the show while also setting the scene, especially during the end of Act I and whenever Marie/Fairy Godmother (Leslie Jackson) appeared on stage.
Even though I normally lead toward seeing musicals set for an older audience—"Cabaret" or "Chicago"— or musicals with more complex plot lines— "The Phantom of the Opera" or "Wicked"—this musical was incredibly enjoyable. I have loved the movie version of the play (starring Brandy Norwood) since I was little, so seeing it come to life on stage was nostalgic.
The score for the musical is catchy and dreamlike, much like the quality of the story. "Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella," while based on a story aimed at children, still provided enough material to entertain all audiences and have you leave the theater singing.
