Cappies Review 'Cinderella' Performance at Thomas Wootton HS

From the Cappies: Have you ever dreamed of transforming rags into gowns and pumpkins into carriages? Well, Thomas S. Wootton High School's production of Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella proved that with a little kindness and a touch of magic, dreams really do come true. Grab your glass slippers and enter this fantastical world of love and longing where the poor become queens and fairies in disguise roam free.

Based on Charles Perrault's classic fairy tale, Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella was written for television and aired on CBS in 1957, additionally enjoying a Broadway run in 2013.

This timeless tale follows the young dreamer Ella (Emily Ray) who, after the death of her father, is subject to the cruel whims of her stepmother Madame (Daria Kerschenbaum). However, despite initial adversity she is able to escape her circumstances and find true love, with the help of her Fairy Godmother (Sophia Koval, proving once and for all that "It's Possible."

Emily Ray, starring as the show's namesake, wooed audiences with her clear voice, impressive range, and chillingly beautiful vibrato. Conveying Ella's hope and optimism, Ray embodied the spirit of the show. Alongside Ray was Krystian Ochman as the noble Prince Topher, the caring ruler and eligible bachelor for which Ella falls. Together, the two displayed unmatched chemistry and professional quality performances. Standout numbers include "Loneliness of Evening" and "Do I Love You Because You're Beautiful."

Backing up the show's leads were a lively ensemble and strong supporting cast. Matthew Rosenthal impressed in the role of Lord Pinkleton, demonstrating his vocal capabilities in "The Prince is Giving a Ball." Sophia Koval put on a simply magical performance as Marie/The Fairy Godmother, effortlessly awing in "Impossible" and "It's Possible." Other standout performances include those of Daria Kerschenbaum (Madame), whose perfected evil laugh contributed to the delightfully over-the-top nature of her character; Taylor Litofsky (Gabrielle), whose character developed from obedient daughter to love-struck, ladle-wielding young woman; and Julia Bergel (Charlotte), whose comedic timing never failed to move the audience to laughter.

Reinforcing the quality of the show was the remarkable crew work. Led by Jimmy Baldwin, Line Bower, and Kaylee Mina, the set crew wowed, most notably with the giant two-story castle. Other sets were easily interchangeable and though some transitions were lengthy, the audience was kept entertained by the pit orchestra. Other noteworthy features include the light-up carriage and use of a smoke machine to creatively depict an off-stage dragon.

Cinderella is a challenging show, but this cast and crew hit the nail on the head with their engaging, whimsical, and colorful production. Giving new life to a well-known story, Wootton High School's interpretation of Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella is a delight for theater-goers of all ages.

by Celia Richardson of Albert Einstein High School

Image via Pixabay