One of the world’s most beloved fairytales, Cinderella has enchanted audiences for centuries on both stage and screen. Wilton High School’s talent for whimsical theater will not disappoint in this year’s production of the classic tale.
Most are acquainted with Disney’s charming animated rendition of Cinderella’s plight as a compassionate romantic indentured to her evil stepmother; many more still have seen Rodgers and Hammerstein’s 1957 original broadway show. But fewer may be familiar with the new and updated Broadway version of the original production. It is this relevant, beautifully captivating, and uproariously clever adaptation that Wilton High will present.
Each character is delightfully, ironically, constructed, and played by a talented group of student actors. Though the names of characters may diverge from the classic tale, beloved roles still remain. Hannah Mikita, ‘19, will break your heart as the sweet and wholly benevolent title character, here called ‘Ella.’ The prestigious ‘Prince Topher’ (Joe Apuzzo, ‘19), object of the adoration of every female in the kingdom, is reserved and quiet, and apprehensive of the limelight. The classic selfish step-sister duo is reduced to one–Gabrielle, (Allison Farago, ’18) is Cinderella’s brash sister. The other step-sister is Charlotte (Rachel Strazza, ‘18), a kind counterpart who seeks a friend in Ella. Meanwhile, Jamie Feidner, ‘18, presents a deliciously nefarious, brilliantly villainous Madame (Stepmother).
In addition to the main cast of characters, a supporting ensemble of around 50 students adds life to the show as townspeople, Lords and Ladies, and Peasants as well as providing featured dancers that animate each scene in dreamy waltzes and gavottes.
Though this particular version of Cinderella feels more sophisticated and mature, the show is still completely family friendly and accessible to children of all ages. Magnificent set pieces, beautiful costumes, and soaring musical numbers will captivate audience members from 5 to 105 years old with its magic. Each ball gown has been painstakingly tailored and designed to ensure the diversity of every single costume, creating an explosive, colorful effect during ballroom scenes. Audiences will be amazed by Cinderella’s magical on-stage transformation from rags to a beautiful ball-gown fit for a Princess. Every aspect of the show is detailed and carefully constructed, resulting in a refined, charming production that is well worth the watch.
Cinderella will be performed in the Clune Auditorium on Friday, May 18 at 8 p.m., Saturday, May 19, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, May 20 at 3 p.m.. To purchase your tickets, visit the Wilton High School website.
Cast:
Ella: Hannah Mikita (junior)
Topher: Joe Apuzzo (junior)
Lord Pinkleton: Finn Maloney (senior)
Sebastian: Liam Defelice (senior)
Marie: Lily Mikita (freshman)
Jean-Michel: Trevor Brown (senior)
Madame: Jamie Feidner (senior)
Gabrielle: Allison Farago (senior)
Charlotte: Rachel Strazza (senior)