By Torri Adams
Tuacahn shines with their production of Rogers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella at Tuacahn in Ivins. It’s the classic fairy tale with a few twists and turns and a whole lot of magic. This musical adaptation includes songs that will keep your toes tapping and heart swooning.
The moment you enter the Tuacahn Amphitheater, you are transported into a magical world because the set on the outdoor theater’s stage is beautiful. I am never disappointed in the caliber of Tuacahn’s set pieces. With full-sized homes, trees, and staircases, Cinderella is brought to life. Scenic designer Adam Koch is spot on, no matter the setting.
I was also immediately taken away by the incredible costumes designed by Janet Swenson. All of the dresses, hats, men’s elaborate suits are appropriate and beautiful. Every member of the cast has exquisite attire the entire show. This show requires some instant onstage costume transformations, which are cleverly and impressively done. Magic happens right before your eyes, and if you aren’t paying close enough attention, you will miss it. From rags to riches, Cinderella’s ball gown seems to appear out of nowhere.
Director Jani Walsh-Weber does a phenomenal job with her players, and the vocals are phenomenal (music direction by Charlie Reuter). Ella (Rebecca Brudner) has a powerful and clear voice. Her emotions are exactly what I would have imagined. Playing Prince Topher opposite Ella, Aaron Young carries his part as the dashing prince fabulously as well. Together their voices blend beautifully in songs such as “Ten Minutes Ago” and “Do I Love You Because You’re Beautiful?”
Cinderella wouldn’t be much of a story without the side characters, each of whom also performs their role fantastically. Erika Amato is the pompous and selfish stepmother Madame, Abby Gershuny is the boisterous and comedic stepsister Charlotte, and Sara Gallo plays the blessedly likeable and quirky stepsister Gabrielle. Another standout performer is Frank Viveros as Lord Pinkleton; his well-trained operatic voice adds another dimension to the show. Linda Griffin delivers a moving performance as “Crazy” Marie, whose true identity you may be able to guess.
The dancing is phenomenal. I am always happy when there is an ensemble that can dance at the level this one does. With high kicks and leaps to impressive flips and lifts, each dancing scene kept me thoroughly entertained and I would have been happy if the dance numbers had gone on twice as long. The choreography, by director Walsh-Weber and associate choreographer Edward Cueller, is clean, creative, and impressive. I am not normally a fan of the song “The Prince Is Giving a Ball,” but I would have endured listening to the repetitive lyrics for even longer if the dancing had continued. Believe me, that is one of the highest compliments I can pay.
Cinderella tells a story that is well-worn and familiar; don’t expect too many unpredictable plot twists or deep philosophy. It is, however, unmistakably entertaining. On top of the talented cast, there are special effects in true Tuacahn style: from pyrotechnics to puppetry to a flying Fairy Godmother. I was enthralled, and I can only imagine the magical quality that the production had for the younger audience members.
Fairy tales tend to have a “moral to the story.” Tuacahn’s Cinderella shares messages of optimism, forgiveness, kindness, and daring to dream and work for your dreams. I think these are messages that we all should be reminded of frequently. If the moral can come with a little magic and “fol-de-rol,” then even better.
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Tuacahn Center for the Arts presents Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella. Lyrics and Original Book by Oscar Hammerstein II, Music by Richard Rodgers, New book by Douglas Carter Beane.
Tuacahn Center for the Arts, 1100 Tuacahn Drive, Ivins, Utah 84738
June 8 – Oct 19, 2018 Select dates, Times vary by date 7:30 – 8:45 PM
Tickets: $29-91
Contact: (800) 746-9882 or (435) 652-3300
Tuacahn Center for the Arts Facebook Page
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