I have seen many different adaptations of Cinderella in the past, but Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Broadway musical on the classic fairytale has been the best among all. Filled with comical twists and the right dose of romance, the musical provides a fresh modern take on the story while still preserving its essence.
Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella has music by Richard Rodgers, lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, a new book by Douglas Carter Beane, and original book by Oscar Hammerstein II. It is unlike the tale we have grown up listening, this Cinderella is a contemporary figure living in a fairytale setting. She not only fights for her own dreams, but forces the prince to open his eyes to the world around him and realize his dreams too.
Just when you begin to feel that the plotline is same like the fairytale you have read, the musical takes on a different angle, adding in interesting characters and giving a new perspective to the existing characters. Elements such as politics, social issues, even the elections, are added to the story giving us a glimpse of what Cinderella and her prince would be like in the modern age.
One of the things that completely fascinated me was Cinderella’s transformation for the ball. The costumes played a great trick here, making it seem like a magical transformation. Attendees were left speechless and in awe, while trying to figure how exactly did Cinderella’s dress change into a gown and vice versa. It was one of my favourite parts of the musical.
Bring a Broadway show, the music and songs played a major role in bringing out the much-needed emotions and dramatic effects of the musical. I loved the songs “Impossible/It’s Possible” and “Do I Love You Because You're Beautiful?”
Cinderella is playing at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre till April 16, 2017. If you haven’t booked your tickets yet, I highly recommend you do. You wouldn’t want to miss this one for sure.
Tickets are on sale through ticketmaster.ca or by calling 1-855-985-5000. For more information please visit CinderellaOnBroadway.com
Photo: Carol Rosegg
