CINDERELLA

Andy Jones and Paige Faure

Broadway Philadelphia, presented collaboratively by the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts and the Shubert Organization, is proud to present the 2013 Tony Award Winning Broadway Musical Rodgers and Hammerstein’s CINDERELLA through November 30. Direct from playing the title role on Broadway, Paige Faure has taken her golden voice on the road as she continues to wow audiences with her performances. An exceptional talent, Paige not only has a resounding voice but she scurries back and forth across the stage with a grace that few young actresses can maintain. Andy Jones, portraying Prince Topher, was a member of the original Broadway Company. His rich voice is a prefect compliment for Ms. Faure’s.  As he sweeps her off her feet, the audience is mesmerized by the waltz at the ball. There is outstanding choreography throughout the production. Whether in the town, through the woods, or in the ballroom, the dance routines are remarkably well executed. This production of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s CINDERELLA is a far cry from a two-star show with a cast to back them up. Ashley Park, as step-sister Gabrielle, has some tender moments that she shares onstage with Cinderella and a delightful duet that she shares with boyfriend Jean-Michel, played by David Andino.  Aymee Garcia’s performance as stepsister Charlotte is riotous as she leads the Ladies of the Court in the “Stepsisters’ Lament.” The deep, rich voice of Antoine L. Smith, portraying Lord Pinkleton, resonates throughout the Academy of Music every time he opens his mouth. The work of the creative team is brilliant. Tony Award nominee Anna Louizos is responsible for the intricate scene changes, most of which revolve around the forest. Cinderella’s cottage is in the woods and even the palace has the theme brought into it with silver covered branches serving as an archway.  Six-time Tony Award-winner William Ivey Long designed the magnificent costumes, some of which are resplendent with fairy-tale magic. When asked how to create a magical world for Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, Long, who won an Academy Award for his designs for this production replied, “ You have to think of it as a period piece. It is a fairy tale. In fact, that’s the period: fairy tale.” Tony Award winner Kenneth Posner is responsible for the marvelous lighting in the woods,  the night sky well and the ballroom and Tony Award nominee Nevin Steinberg is responsible for the subtle nuances of sound design. This fresh new take on a classic fairy tale combines the classic elements of glass slippers, pumpkin and a beautiful ball with some fascinating new twists. This Cinderella is more than  a rags-to-riches dream come true tale but also a tale of a young woman who brings kindness, compassion and forgiveness to change the world around her. This is not just a show for children. Come see it and feel the excitement!  Tickets are available by calling 215-731-3333, visiting online at kimmelcenter.org/broadway at the Kimmel Center box office; Broad and Spruce Sts (open daily 10 am to 6 pm or at the Academy of Music box office, Broad and Locust Street (open during performances only.