Sierra Theatre Company’s latest theatrical endeavor, “Cinderella (Enchanted Edition),” hits all the right notes in both the performances and music. It’s a musical treat for the eyes and ears of all ages with its charming and often humorous dancing, singing, acting and, especially, costumes.
With music composed by Richard Rodgers and book and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, the original “Cinderella” was presented on television on March 31, 1957, starring a newly popular Julie Andrews. That show was seen by more than 100 million viewers. A 1997 remake, which starred the pop singer Brandy as Cinderella and Whitney Houston as her Fairy Godmother, updated the social conscience of the story and was orchestrated with a more pop-music-like sound, as well as placed increased emphasis on character development and romance. This current “Cinderella (Enchanted Edition)” was adapted for the stage by Tom Briggs and inspired by that 1997 remake.
In this version, Cinderella is still ill-treated like a servant by her stepmother and two stepsisters, but she hopes for romance and a better life. Eventually, she gets both, with the relationship between her and the prince given more focus and with her asserting some agency. This version also has more emphasis on kindness, hope and achieving dreams, with comedy and “shtick” provided by the stepmother, stepsiblings and the Prince’s steward.
The large cast is uniformly entertaining and well-voiced; the ensemble sings and dances with style, assurance and enthusiasm. Syreena Cain channels Cinderella, with her sweet demeanor, wistful glances and lovely voice. Wonderfully partnering her is the tuneful Terry Martin as Prince Christopher, who wants more out of life than his sheltered, pampered existence. Heidi Grass, as Cinderella’s stepmother, effectively uses her exaggerated eyebrow lifts, eye rolls and smirks to generate audience laughter—and her costumes are fabulous! The two humorously mismatched stepsisters, Grace (a small Vicki Columbo) and Joy (a long and lanky Robert Rushin) are Laurel & Hardy funny. Bringing some sass and a great voice as the Fairy Godmother is Sarah Meyers. Rounding out the main characters, with fine singing and bouts of humor, are Robbie Merchant as the Prince’s steward, Lionel; Stephanie Raczkowski as the Queen; and John Gardiner as the King.
Christi Colombo is both the director and choreographer for the play, and she has done excellent work with both; the entire production is captivating, and the dancing is fun, visually interesting and well-executed. Various animations are effectively designed by John Columbo and add magic to the endeavor. Michele Edwards designed the straightforward, useful set and outrageously wonderful hair and makeup. And Hunter Reed’s lighting and sound contribute appropriate ambiance to the whole. Adding to the professional quality of the production, Kay Hight conducts as well as plays keyboard for a terrific three-person band.
But the costumes, designed by Marci Wolfe, are the absolute stars of the play. The creativity, design, color, layering, materials, shoes, hats—everything worn on stage is amazing! Watch for the apron that turns into a ballgown.
This musical is fun for kids from five to ninety-five. While it has some nice underlying messages, it’s also funny, it’s extremely colorful and visual, the music is lovely, the performances are terrific, and it’s a fun afternoon or evening at the theater. So be sure to buy your tickets soon; it continues through August 8 at the Nevada Theatre, including several matinee performances which might work well for those who want to bring young kiddos.
Hindi Greenberg hadn’t previously heard of this musical nor seen it on TV, so it was a splendid surprise for her.
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