Classic fairytale comes to life with transformation of girl into a princess

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Women of the town lament about being single in “Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella,” presented by Foothill Music Theatre July 18 – August 4, 2019.


Foothill Music Theatre brings Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical  to the Smithwick Theatre in Los Gatos Hills.

Image result for Foothill Music Theater CinderellaThis Cinderella has a few new twists that the rewritten book by Douglas Carter Beane  brings this old classic up to date. Cinderella (a delightful Christina Lea) is thoughtful and bright and looks to better her life and help the people living in her kingdom.  Her sisters (played by Melissa  Gladini and Gwyneth Forrester) are no longer silly and ugly but are less thoughtful and unkind and are searching a better future for themselves. Edward Clark takes on the role of Topher the unsure, sensitive young prince and Jamine Johnson as Madame,  Cinderella’s selfish step-mom doesn’t deter anyone from their journey.  The large ensemble cast carries the production to elevated heights with choreography by Lee Ann Payne and  Rodgers and Hammerstein’s music that includes “My Own Little Corner,” “Impossible,” “Ten Minutes Ago” and “Do I Love you Because You’re Beautiful?”

Director Milissa Carey takes  her cast on a fun joy ride that includes the change from a pumpkin to carriage complete with drivers.  Costumer Designer Lisa Rozman’s colorful costumes and the quick change from rages to a beautiful gown, are interesting, when  Cinderella’s Fairy God Mother (Angela Cesena) sends her off to the  ball. Scenic designer Kuo-Hao Lo and Lighting Designer Michael Ramsaur create great moments throughout. Musical  Director Daniel Feyer conducts his eleven fine musicians to ultimate perfection.

Foothill Music Theatre production of “Cinderella” offers an exuberant talented cast for a fairy-tale to make a young woman’s dreams come true with a handsome prince.

Camille Bounds is the Theatre and Arts columnist for Morgan Hill and Gilroy life.


DETAILS

“Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella”

Where: Smithwick Theatre at Foothill College  12345 El Monte Road – Los Altos Hills

Through: August 4

Time: 2 hours and thirty minutes with one intermission

Tickets: $13-$26

Information and reservations: call (650) 949-7360 or visit www.foothillmusicals.com