Cinderella for the 21st Century
SHARED By: Hilarie Zimbicki, Yoga and Movement Director at Gymtime and York Avenue Preschool
As I was on the way to see Cinderella on Broadway, I felt a bit apprehensive. I am a huge Disney fan and when I think about this fairy tale classic, I imagine Cinderella in her big, blue ball gown singing with mice. I was worried that the Roger and Hammerstein version would not be my cup of tea…
As I arrived at Broadway Theater, I was thrilled to see the giant glass slipper (from the advertisements) and instantly loved their tagline, “Glass slippers are so back.”The lights dimmed and a beautiful voice (think fairy Godmother) reminded us to “Put cell phones away, as well as any daily worries and concerns.” As the show began I was blown away by the set. The stage was covered with tall majestic trees, which would eventually transform to a little cottage, then a castle and even a village. It was absolutely stunning!
The performance was magical and boys and girls alike were in awe of the “magic” that happened throughout the night. Every girl in the audience was wearing a ruffled dress, a little tiara and sparkly shoes. They “ooh’d” and “aww’d” throughout the show, giggled at Cinderella’s animal friends and were angry at her mean stepmother. One little princess even shouted “Oh my gosh!” as Cinderella easily slipped her foot into the glass slipper – it was probably the most adorable moment on Broadway. The boys had an equally good time. They loved the opening scene where the Prince slayed the giant forest monster and defeated the enormous dragon. The witty lines of both the Prince and Cinderella’s crazy stepsisters kept them entertained.
Even the adults’ jaws dropped when Cinderella’s rags transformed into a beautiful ball gown, the pumpkin turned into a coach and the town’s crazy lady became a beautiful fairy Godmother. There were moments where even I thought, “How did they do that?!” I’ve never seen a more attentive audience, especially one so full of children!
Then there’s the music. You will leave the theater singing “Impossible” or “In My Own Little Corner” and your kids will sing right along with you.
Now I must say this version of Cinderella is different than the classic Disney tale, even a little different than the original 1957 Rodgers and Hammerstein’s version. But I could not have loved it more! The contemporary script, written by Douglas Carter Beane allows the characters to have more depth. Cinderella and the Prince are both trying to chase their dreams and discovering how to be a good person. One step-sister has a change of heart and the entire kingdom has a revolution! It truly is a modern-day fairytale.
Not to worry, the classic parts of the story remain: Cinderella loses her glass slipper, the fairy Godmother is there to save the day and everyone lives happily ever after.
To have your own fairy tale experience on Broadway you can purchase tickets here. Cinderella tickets start at $45 and the show is performed 8 times a week. It’s a great time for the whole family and you will get home before the stroke of midnight!