Disclosure: I was given two tickets to attend opening night and four tickets to giveaway. As always, all opinions are my own.
On Tuesday, my son and I headed to downtown Cleveland to see opening night of RODGERS + HAMMERSTEIN’S CINDERELLA at Playhouse Square. He absolutely loves live theater and it’s so fun to enjoy a night out together, just the two of us!
Before the show we stopped at The Chocolate Bar to grab a bite to eat and then stepped into the beautiful Connor Palace right down the street. As we headed to our seats, we marveled at the gorgeous columns and hanging chandeliers.
Richard Rogers and Oscar Hammerstein II’s, version of CINDERELLA may be a little different than the Disney version you know. While it stays with the main storyline, this version charms the audience with more than a traditional fairy tale story and offers a modern political message.
This version cuts out the king and queen and adds new characters, such as Jean-Michel, a peasant who falls in love with Cinderella’s nice sister, Gabriella, and Sebastian, the prince’s conniving advisor. The prince, Topher (with a lot of middle names), is fresh out of college and a naïve young ruler who later transforms into a benevolent leader. Ella (Cinderella) is a strong willed, modern woman, who speaks her mind. I loved the changes from the classic fairy-tale and by the laughs I heard throughout, so did the audience.
The score includes such traditional favorites as “Impossible,” “In My Own Little Corner of the World,” “It’s Possible,” “A Lovely Night,” “Do I Love You Because You’re Beautiful,” and “There’s Music in You.” Even if these songs are new to you, you’ll be humming along by the end of each one.
The musical is filled with gorgeous sets, well-designed lighting and a strong cast. The singing is gorgeous, the voices are beautiful and the dances are high quality. The songs “Impossible” and “It’s Possible” offer such quick costume changes that you won’t believe what you are seeing. Be sure not to blink or you’ll miss it.
One of my favorite characters, was fairy-godmother. This charming lady transitions from a crazed beggar woman to beautiful guide for Ella. Her musical numbers are strong and her costume is gorgeous.
The touring production of ROGERS AND HAMMERSTEIN’S CINDERELLA is a delight for all ages! I saw everyone from couples on dates, to families with small children. It’s a charming delight for both the eye and ear and it’s a perfect musical to see.
ROGERS AND HAMMERSTEIN’S CINDERELLA is at the Connor Palace through January 20, 2019. For tickets to this must see musical call 216-241-6000 or go to www.playhousesquare.org.
