Lincoln-Way West Cast Ready To Enchant With 'Cinderella' Musical

NEW LENOX, IL — Lincoln-Way West students are set to shine in classic Cinderella, with performances scheduled for April 11–13.

The cast and crew of more than 100 students will bring to life the Rodgers and Hammerstein adaptation of the classic fairy tale.

The adaptation was the pair's only musical originally composed for television. It first aired in 1957, starring Julie Andrews as Cinderella, and raked in 107 million viewers, according to the duo's website. It was remade in 1965, starring Lesley Ann Warren, and again in 1997, starring R&B singer Brandy as Cinderella and Whitney Houston as her Fairy Godmother.

Based upon the classic fairy tale, and particularly the French version Cendrillon ou la Petite Pantoufle de Verre, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s adaptation "brings new life to the story of a young woman forced into servitude who dreams of—and achieves—a better life. Cinderella features some of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s most beloved songs, including 'In My Own Little Corner,' 'Impossible,' and 'Ten Minutes Ago,' according to StageAgent.com.

The production crew includes Producer and Music Director Tom Venutolo, Director Connie Johnson, Choreographer Jill Rector, Stage Manager Hannah Nicks, Lighting Design by Tyler Dawson, Sound Designer Patrick Spreadbury, and many more. All can be found in the show program seen below.

"We are excited to have brought this updated Rodgers and Hammerstein classic to life including all the new magical effects," Johnson said. "It was challenging but rewarding to build a life-size horse, magical dresses, and bring a full-sized carriage on stage. It would not have been possible without all the staff and parent support, and we can't wait for the community to see all our hard work!"

Cast members spoke of the challenges of the production.

"Portraying Cinderella while balancing all of her attributes, kindness, strength disappointment and despair was both challenging and exciting," said Ava Sandrzyk, who plays Cinderella. "Learning the songs, lines, and staging was tough, but Cinderella's resilience inspired me to persevere."

“The most challenging thing about playing my character is portraying Topher’s internal conflict," said Dylan Hurley, who plays Prince Topher.

"He’s not a stereotypical fairytale prince, so you have to show his strength and charm but also his doubt and growth. My favorite part of this production is singing with my co-star Ava as Cinderella!”

The students started preparing in January, with weekly acting, singing, and dance rehearsals.

"The biggest challenge was learning all the dances, but once I practiced them and felt confident, it was also the most fun!" said Lucy Wallenberg, who plays a knight.

Pit orchestra members provide the musical accompaniment, resounding throughout the auditorium.

"I love the challenging music and transposing parts to play on soprano sax," said Jonah Zolecki ~ soprano saxophone. I enjoying practicing and this gives me the opportunity to learn additional music."

There will be four performances of the show, to be held at Lincoln-Way West, 21701 S. Gougar Rd.:

• Fri, Apr 11: 7 to 9:30 p.m.
• Sat, Apr 12: 1 to 3:30 p.m.
• Sat, Apr 12: 7 to 9:30 p.m.
• Sun, Apr 13: 3 to 5:30 p.m.

Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online.