Gamut Theatre Presents CINDERELLA, Beginning 4/6

Gamut Theatre Group's Popcorn Hat Players present CINDERELLA written by Sean Adams, an original work based on the traditional folk tale by French author Charles Perrault. Performances are Saturday, April 6, 2013 at 2:30 and 7:30 at Whitaker Center's Sunoco Theatre in Downtown Harrisburg. The much-beloved folk tale has been adapted into a full-length play performed by students, ages 6 through 18.

Rhodopis in ancient Greece, Aschenputtel in Germany, Ye Xian in China - there is perhaps no other fairy tale so commonly told by so many cultures across the world. But it was French author Charles Perrault's retelling of the classic tale that we know best, and now the PHP Young Acting Company will take on the challenge of an all-new adaptation of CINDERELLA.

Forced by her stepmother to maintain their lavish home, and dubbed "Cinder Ella" by her stepsisters after cleaning the soot-filled fireplace, Ella dreams of a happier life. When the Prince announces a celebration - a magnificent ball to be held over three nights - Ella wants nothing more than to go. It seems that the momentous occasion will pass her by until her fairy godmother appears to grant her every wish. This full-length original adaptation of the classic tale shows what it's like when the shoe (or slipper) is on the other foot, and reminds us how it's lucky to be beautiful, but far greater to be kind.

Directed by Melissa Nicholson, the cast of CINDERELLA is composed of both former and current students of Gamut's Theatre School program, as well as newcomers to the Gamut Theatre. Newcomer Kat Allison, 16-year-old junior at Elizabethtown Area High School and the Capital Area School for the Arts, is "thrilled" to be playing Cinderella, "because I have the chance to be a role model to the younger actors in the cast," younger actors such as Lizard and Party Guest, Joseph Lavender (8 years old), who is most excited about "bonding with the cast, as we become one big crazy theater family." The performance will feature singing, dancing, staged combat, and the irreverent humor that the Popcorn Hat Players are known for, as well as giving the cast of students a chance to learn the ins and outs of a professional theatrical production as they display their own incredible talent. Amy Gambill, mother of 11-year-old cast member, Owen, says "I love how this play experience gives the kids a real feel of theatre life and all its pros, cons and requirements." She adds, "And the staff is very enthusiastic about what they're doing and it shows that they truly enjoy working with the kids." Kassidy Kramer (9 years old), who will be playing Ivy--think Puck to the Fairy Godmother's Oberon--has performed with PHP Young Acting Company before, but says she is "most excited about getting to say the first lines I have ever said in a [PHP Young Acting Company] performance. I am also excited to do my gymnastics on the Whitaker Center stage."

CINDERELLA will be presented at The Sunoco Performance Theatre in the Whitaker Center on Saturday, April 6 for two performances only at 2:30pm and 7:30pm. Tickets are $15 each and seating is reserved. Group discounts are also available. For reservations, call 717-238-4111 or email info@gamutplays.org.

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