BWW Reviews: ROGERS AND HAMMERSTEIN'S CINDERELLA at Music Hall At Fair Park

Everyone knows Cinderella. As one of the Brothers Grimm's most retold tales, this story made its way through the years from the pages of books to the stage and screen. So, it may come as a surprise that, in 2013, after dozens of successful movies (several of them musicals) and a handful of star-studded touring productions of the same title, CINDERELLA finally opened its first Broadway production. Bringing the enchantment of this extraordinary rags-to-riches story of a young girl becoming a princess to life, CINDERELLA is a magical feast for kids of all ages.

However, this CINDERELLA comes with some new twists. With a new laughter-filled script by Douglas Carter Beane, this production challenges you to leave behind your Disney dreams, and meet Cinderella (now called Ella) and Prince Topher as everyday, ordinary young adults. Still, as expected, our leading lady is transformed-quite effectively in front of the audience-by a magical fairy godmother, sent to an exciting ball at the palace, and meets the charming man of her royal dreams.

As the leading lord and lady, Andy Huntington Jones (Prince Topher) and Paige Faure (Ella) carry the show with equal parts heart and humor. In addition to their stunning vocals, the pair displays impressive chemistry, and an innocent, infectious energy. Ms. Faure also demonstrates impressive technical dance skills, which is not surprising when you learn her history with the production. She originally was introduced to the show to dance the lead role for her friend, choreographer Josh Rhodes, as he auditioned to stage the musical. Although she ultimately did not continue with the production (she was pregnant and took time away to have a baby), she was eventually invited-without any formal audition-to play the title role on Broadway prior to launching this touring company.

The Prince and his bride-to-be are not the only reason to see the show, though. Stealing their many scenes as Ella's stepsisters are Kaitlyn Davidson as Gabrielle and Aymee Garcia as Charlotte. The former being sweet and the later being sassy, these ladies are a perfect pair. Ms. Garcia's Act Two showstopper, "Stepsister's Lament," is a highlight of the already impressive production.

Kecia Lewis (Marie/Fairy Godmother) deserves similar praise for her versatility and velvet voice; David Andino (Jean Michelle) for his charm; and Antoine L. Smith for his epic, bordering-on-rock vocals, in an otherwise thankless role as Lord Pinkleton. The entire ensemble truly shines in their various roles.

If you've visited the Music Hall at Fair Park, you know it's a mammoth of a venue. Still, this production fits like the famous glass slipper, thanks to Tony Award winner Anna Louizo's elegant scenery, and William Ivey Long's incredible costumes, which are worth the ticket price alone. Lighting, designed by Kenneth Posner, completes the package by painting the sky in perfect shades of fairy dust.

Rogers and Hammerstein's CINDERELLA continues at the Music Hall at Fair Park in Dallas through Sunday, June 21st, and moves to Ball Performance Hall in Fort Worth from June 23rd-28th. For tickets and more information, visit www.cinderellaonbroadway.com.

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