On Saturday, Nov. 17, Our Lady of Fatima School proudly presents Cinderella, a musical featuring a cast of talented Fatima students, led by the school’s 5th graders. Lilly Pace (noon performance) and Taylor Sloditskie (2:30 p.m. performance) alternate in the role of Cinderella; Carter Robinson is the Prince; and Matthew Weiss is the King. Eighth grader Liliana Benanti plays the Stepmother. The musical features classic songs, including “A Wish Is a Dream Your Heart Makes,” “A Lovely Night,” and “Bibbiddi Bobbiddi Boo,” and is accompanied by a pianist.
While the 1st through 5th grade students are the heart of the show, the eight grade students and Fatima alumni have been assisting the younger cast members. By helping with the production, the upper class students gain supervisory experience and learn the more technical aspects that occur behind the scenes.
Joe Santaniello Cinderella directs Cinderella, his fourth production at OLF. He previously directed Ellis Island, The Snow Queen, Pulaski Park Rules and Hansel and Gretel.
Our Lady of Fatima students perform two musicals each year, one in the fall and one in the spring.
“Every year I am impressed with the student’s enthusiasm and commitment,” says OLF theater coordinator Karin Beggan. “It gives the students the opportunity to explore the arts. By offering all students the chance to perform onstage, students gain public speaking experience and confidence.”
One OLF parent commented that they are very grateful that the school offers a full range of extracurricular programs such as basketball and cross country, as well as band, a competitive chess team, computer programming classes, cooking classes and an investment club.
Performances on Nov. 17 are at noon and 2:30 p.m. at the school auditorium (225 Danbury Rd.). The show is approximately one hour. Tickets are $15 at the door.
