Wear Your Tiara and Glass Slippers

Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella

Charles Perrault’s 17th century fairy tale is everyone’s favorite princess story. The French folktale has been adapted into every culture with its own version of the poor, put-upon young girl who rises above her miserable situation to win the hand of the handsome prince. American Composers Rodgers & Hammerstein understood the universal charm of this beloved story. In 1957 the famous composers wrote a musical version for television that starred a young Julie Andrews in the title role. The popularity of this production prompted other televised incarnations, as well as the current full stage version. Marriott’s Lincolnshire Theatre for Young Audiences has mounted a beautiful, professionally produced 60-minute adaptation of the musical that’s just as funny, magical and heartwarming as the full-length production.

Theatre patrons who think this musical might inferior to the Marriott’s usual top-notch, full-length productions, just because it’s aimed at children and families. But they’re in for a very pleasant surprise. Associate Artistic Director, Katie Johannigman has directed her production with unbridled energy and unlimited creativity. Her talented cast features many of Chicago’s finest musical actors, as well as a couple of talented newcomers to the Marriott stage.

Can there be a more enchanting Cinderella than lovely Jaeda LaVonne? Even though this production isn’t adapted from the animated version, Ms. LaVonne will bring back memories of the Walt Disney fairytale heroine. Making her Marriott debut, Jaeda is a versatile, talented young actress and her beautiful voice and choreographic grace make her a natural for this role. The little girls in the audience fell in love with her almost as quickly as Prince Christopher, who’s nicely played by handsome Marriott newcomer, Trey DeLuna. Trey recently returned to Chicago from the National Tour of COME FROM AWAY. Together the two actors have great chemistry. They dance like a dream and harmonize perfectly with such R&H classics as “Ten Minutes Ago.”

Favorite Chicago leading lady, actress Heidi Kettenring (1776, HELLO DOLLY) tightly grips the reins as the surly, shrewish Stepmother, while Tiffany Taylor and Annie Yokom are deliciously cruel and selfish as Stepsisters Portia and Joy. A favorite Chicago comic actress, lovely Lillian Castillo (ELEPHANT & PIGGIE) waves her magic wand of humor and joy and brings a gorgeous voice to her portrayal of the whimsical Fairy Godmother (“Impossible” is one of the show’s musical highlights). Lorenzo Rush Jr. (also seen in Marriott’s ELEPHANT & PIGGIE) and Cruz Gonzalez-Cadel (remembered for Marriott’s IN THE HEIGHTS) make a humorously grumpy, frugal King and his loving, spendthrift Queen. The Herald and Royal Confidant’s played with vigor by the gifted Ron King (Marriott’s DAMN YANKEES). He’s hilarious when trying the glass slipper on everyone in the audience! And last, but definitely not least, the multitalented Garrett Lutz (JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH and many other shows) plays several roles, including the talented and loquacious Chef. He’s also brilliant after the play ends, comfortably leading a post-show question-and-answer session between the affable cast and their eager audience.

The musical and technical support for this magnificent production includes Michael Daly’s Sound Design, with its full-sounding musical accompaniment. David Geinosky’s simple Scenic Design, Megan Wines’ magical Lighting Design, Rachel Boylan’s lavish and lush Costumes and Allison Lowery’s period Wigs all enhance the story and are guaranteed to delight all ages. Just the right amount of magical special effects drew loud gasps of amazement from both young and old alike.

Are you looking for a wonderful alternative to the typical holiday fare? Perhaps one of your children’s favorite fairy tales, set the music of Rodgers and Hammerstein? Well, Marriott’s Lincolnshire Theatre is currently presenting a polished, professional musical comedy that’s sure to cast a spell over every audience member. Oh! And be sure to wear your shiniest tiara and glass slippers and you’ll fit right in!

Highly Recommended

Reviewed by Colin Douglas

Presented November 15-December 29 by Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire, IL.

Tickets are available in person at the box office, by calling 847-634-0200 or by going to www.MarriottTheatre.com.

Additional information about this and other area productions can be found by visiting www.theatreinchicago.com.