BWW Reviews: Lovely Production of RODGERS + HAMMERSTEIN'S CINDERELLA at the Fabulous Fox

A fairytale is brought to its full fruition on the stage of the Fabulous Fox Theatre with their current presentation of Rodgers + Hammerstein's Cinderella. It's a lovely experience that makes the most of the large stage, filling it with songs and beautiful surroundings fit such a lavishly told tale. Originally conceived and broadcast as a musical for television during the late 1950's and starring Julie Andrews in the title role, this work has been altered many times over the years with musical numbers added and subtracted, and the plot rejiggered as well (book by Douglas Carter Beane) to make it have a more political bent, at least where Cinderella's feelings toward how the kingdom is being are concerned. But, here we have a production that's suitable for children of all ages. In other words, perfect family entertainment.

Cinderella (Paige Faure) is resplendent in the title role, at least once she's in her requisite white gown (gorgeous and colorful costumes by William Ivey), after her fairy godmother (a lively and amusing Kecia Lewis), who undergoes a bit of a transformation herself, grants her wish to attend the royal ball. Out from under the drudgery imposed by her wicked stepmother (a properly mean spirited Beth Glover), Cinderella meets her handsome prince, Topher (the dashing Andy Jones), and eventually lives happily ever after. It's a moment made even more magical by the choreography of Josh Rhodes, who has the cast twirling and gallivanting with energy and enthusiasm ever-present.

Sebastion (a good, if ever so slightly evil performance by Blake Hammond) is handling matters of state a in manner that is most unsuitable to the poorer subjects. Thus we get a goofy rebellious figure named Jean-Michel, played with nerdy panache by David Andino (one of Carter's additions to the script), is actually smitten with one of Cinderella's stepsisters, Gabrielle (Kaitlyn Davidson), who wants to see change occur. The other stepsister, Charlotte, who's less wicked than misguided, is nicely (see it does veer a bit from the original concept) performed by Aymee Garcia.

Mark Brokaw's direction keeps the action moving at a decent pace, although the show's length (it was originally broadcast and initially staged with three acts) works against him at times. Still, it's a story that's given a fresh breath of life. Some of that comes from the contributions of Ivey and Rhodes, but also Anna Louizo's scenic design, and Kenneth Posner's effective lighting design.

The Fabulous Fox Theatre's presentation of Rodgers + Hammerstein's Cinderella is a pure delight, and though it doesn't contain some of Rodgers and Hammerstein's best work, it's still a surprisingly tuneful score, that's given its due by a game and wonderful cast. This family-friendly production continues through February 1, 2015.

Photo Credit: Carol Rosegg

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