What comes to mind when you hear the word Cinderella? Do you break out in “Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo?” Or are you more of a Rodgers + Hammerstein fan? Is Helena Bonham Carter or Whitney Houston your favorite portrayal of the Fairy Godmother? Perhaps the more gruesome Brothers Grim version of the story is more appealing? In the Irish version, “Ashey Pelt” is the protagonist’s name, while in the Native American version “Rough-Faced Girl” must pass a test of character instead of fitting into a glass slipper to become the royal bride.
Ovations Offstage is reaching out to the Cinderella enthusiasts of all ages with the following pre-performance suggestions and opportunities to get your glass slipper on!
1. For the film friendly family
Host a family Cinderella movie night to build a little background knowledge on the various interpretations of the story. Our Director’s favorite features Whitney Houston, Brandy and Bernadette Peters, which is also the Rodger’s and Hammerstein score. A clip from that version can be found here.
2. For the literary crowd
Explore this list of Cinderella stories from around the globe. Or attend our Offstage event at the South Portland Library, where we read several of them together, and explore the connections between them, and the messages they impart, along with a few film clips and art activities. Free and open to the public. Space is limited to forty participants. One family will win tickets (up to four) to the performance in a raffle. Winner needs to be present to win. The workshop will be held on Tuesday, January 30 at the South Portland Public Library from 6 PM–7:30 PM. Learn more here.
3. For the fashionista destined for the stage
Dress up (in layers) and join us for a sing-along bathed in blue! Learn more about the sing-along here.
4. For the culinary princess
Design a menu of French inspired Cinderella edibles. French toast and des fraises for breakfast? A little baguette for lunch? Vegetable fondue for dinner? Prepare the meals leading up to the show.
5. For the party princess
Invite all the princesses you know over for high-tea before the show. Share your stories with each other, and your dreams for the future. Recognize the royalty in everyone!
Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella performs at Merrill Auditorium for three performances starting on Friday, February 2 at 7 PM and Saturday, February 3 at 12:30 PM and 6 PM. Didn’t get your Cinderella tickets yet? Great seats are still available.
