Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella

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https://cinderellamusical.com.au

Date Reviewed: 26/05/2022

The story of Cinderella is reborn with the triumphant opening night at Regent Theatre Melbourne of the Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Tony ® Award-winning Broadway musical.

This striking, lavish undertaking can only be truly appreciated as an audience participant. Indeed, from the moment the curtains are drawn to the finale, it is easy to lose yourself in this fairy-tale. The exquisite, opulent costumes, the enchanting set design, the fabulous cast and ensemble, the charm and elegance of Rodger’s music, and Hammerstein’s lyrics make this production a masterpiece. The stage exuded a sense of magic.

Cinderella tales are cyclical and existed for centuries with the oldest variant of the story dating to first century Greece. Adaptations of this story can be found through time and varying cultures. The general tale of Cinderella typically involves a girl being enslaved by her cruel stepmother and two daughters. She is rescued by a prince who is enamoured by her inner and outer beauty. Whilst it makes a great bedtime story for children, Cinderella raises numerous ethical issues including class, bullying, oppression, and abuse. It offers suggestions about bravery, forgiveness, hope, and kindness.

When Charles Perrault wrote his version of the story, his imagination conjured the more magical aspects of this tale. Perrault added the mystical pumpkin, fairy godmother, and the glass slippers. It was Perrault’s version of Cinderella that was adapted for television in 1957 and transformed into a masterpiece musical by the legendary Rogers and Hammerstein duo. 

This modernised adaptation of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella Broadway production incorporates elements from the book by librettist Douglas Carter Beane. The traditional characters are viewed through a refreshing lens and deeper insight. There are new characters and a sympathetic stepsister. Cinderella represents an empowered woman who stands up for the poor and influences how the prince chooses to reign in his kingdom. The show is infused with humour which forms the spirit of the production. 

The cast did a superb job that earned a standing ovation even before the closing scene came to an end. Leading vocalists were Shubshri Kandiah (Cinderella), Ainsley Melham (Prince Topher), Silvie Paladion (Fairy Godmother; Marie), Tina Bursill (Madame), Todd McKenney (Lord Chancellor; Sebastian), Matilda Moran and Bianca Bruce (stepsisters). They were supported by a magnificent cast and ensemble.

This show provides a wonderful learning opportunity for school children. The Cinderella website has a dedicated Education Kit which is well worth a visit. It provides not only interesting historical information about the story but also offers an opportunity to think about values, ideas, and meanings:  https://cinderellamusical.com.au/education/.

Highly recommended for children and adults alike. 

Reviewed by Irena Begelfor