Review: CINDERELLA at Manatee Performing Arts Center

It is time for a little bit of magic as Manatee Performing Arts Center produces their next mainstage production of "Cinderella." The theatre touts Rodgers + Hammerstein's Cinderella as the new Broadway adaptation of the classic musical. This contemporary take on the classic tale features Rodgers & Hammerstein's most beloved songs, including "In My Own Little Corner," "Impossible/It's Possible" and "Ten Minutes Ago," alongside an up-to-date, hilarious and romantic libretto by Tony Award nominee Douglas Carter Beane. The Broadway adaptation of the classic musical features new characters, a hilarious libretto, surprising twists, and an unforgettable score from Rodgers & Hammerstein.

Under the direction of Preston Boyd, music direction by Julianne Hambrick and choreography by Vanessa Russo, this small but talented cast display a strong range of talent and offer delightful moments for its audience. The set design by Kristin Ribble is simply magnificent. The giant set pieces create an ambiance that transform he stage into a magical time and place. Great care is taken to create a time period set and Cinderella's carriage is nothing short of magnificent. It is a true testament to how one's imagination can create something simple yet spectacular.

The show's characters are dynamic and while the story lacks some pizazz, it is evident the depth of skill these actors possess. Each of the leading characters has the opportunity to shine and they take those moments as they should. Cinderella requires larger than life characters. The skill to manifest that on stage goes beyond that of a typical play. Fairy tales are enchanting and that requires a cast to create an environment where an audience is transformed beyond their natural world.

Ella (Cinderella) played by Katie Priest has a powerhouse voice and a sweet demeanor. Priest does a magnificent job in balancing her strength and understanding of right and wrong with humility and her knowledge of her place in society and in the home of her stepmother. Some of her notes in her duets with Prince Topher (Christos Nicholoudis) were missing which may have been a director's choice, but it led to a slight imbalance in those beautiful numbers but nonetheless Priest's ability to own a stage was evident in every scene and song.

Nicholoudis displays the required blend of power and being naïve to what is happening in the kingdom around him. He sets the stage in his opening song, "Me, Who Am I" that conveys the struggles he wrestles with throughout the show. Nicholoudis is able to carefully navigate his desire to lead his kingdom while coming to the realization of what he wants in life. He does a fantastic job of letting the audience see his character mature as the show moves towards its climax.

One area I that hope continues to develop as the run continues is the chemistry between Ella and Topher. It is a love story. As such, that is paramount to the show and as a fairy tale lover you want to long for the two to get together. You want to see that love develop into something that cannot be resisted and must be attained against all obstacles. I am also a stickler for the kiss. You want the moment to mean something in passion and length.

To that point, the characters of Gabrielle (Amanda Lade) and Jean-Michel (Will Cloud) were pinpoint in their love story. While their journey is embattled, you see their love develop and in Jean-Michel's unwavering pursuit of what he wants in both love and life. Lade carefully navigates her character's need to honor and cower to Madame (Victoria Gross) while at the same time becoming a strong, independent woman. Cloud compliments her at each turn. He is enduring in his quest for righteousness yet is reverent when required of his role in society. Cloud displays a soft side that endears him to the audience. Lade and Cloud add a layer of depth to the story that helped bring the story full circle.

Victoria Gross (Madame), Madison Bradley (Charlotte), Ellen Kleinschmidt (Fairy Godmother), Mark Eichorn (Sebastain) and Terry Spann (Lord Pinkleton) all deliver noteworthy performances that round out this extremely talented cast.

Cinderella is not an easy undertaking and Manatee Performing Arts brings you a captivating story with an atmosphere designed to create magic. That is what theatre is it is magical. Theatre is my passion. Whether it is directing or acting, I cherish every moment I get to be involved in it. Every time you can create art it is a chance to create something special not only for yourself but for those who witness it. That is my biggest take away from "Cinderella." When you see passion on stage you know it.

"Cinderella" runs through December 19th. Tickets and more information can be found at www.manateeperformingartscenter.com or by calling 941-748-5875.

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