Susan Granger’s review of “Cinderella” (Broadway Theater – Oct., 2013)
It’s happened to all of us…you find your seat at a Broadway show, open your program and out flutters little white slips of paper, indicating there are understudies or ‘swing’ performers. Exciting or disappointing? That depends. When Shirley MacLaine stepped in for Carol Haney in “Pajama Game,” a star was born. You never know.
So imagine how delighted the audience was when lovely Alessa Neeck sings “In My Own Little Corner” in a sweet, wholesome soprano. Looking and sounding remarkably like Julie Andrews, who originated the role in Rodgers & Hammerstein’s 1957 made-for-TV musical, Ms. Neeck is enchanting, fitting perfectly into those Venetian glass slippers and enthralling dozens of little girls dressed in their glittery Disney princess gowns and sparkling tiaras. Another ‘swing,’ Linda Mugleston is beguiling as the forest vagrant, known as Crazy Marie, who, magically, becomes Ella’s elegant, high-flying Fairy Godmother.
Witty book writer Douglas Carter Beane (“Lysistrata Jones,” “Xanadu,” “Sister Act”) has cleverly re-imagined and updated Charles Perrault’s classic tale, adding several contemporary subplots, including the neurotic Prince’s identity crisis, and humorous supporting characters, which director Mark Brokaw from the Yale Institute for Music Theater has superbly cast and adroitly staged with dazzling visual effects.
Orphaned after her beloved father died, kind, obedient Ella lives with her sarcastic stepmother (Harriet Harris) and scornful stepsisters (Ann Harada, Maria Mindelle). When her Fairy Godmother grants her wish to attend the Ball and meet Prince Topher (Santino Fontana), Ella’s post-feminist adventure begins – and we all know how that ends.
While there are several, less memorable, new songs, “Impossible,” “A Lovely Night” and “Do I Love You Because You’re Beautiful?” remain, beautifully adapted and arranged by David Chase. Anna Louizos’ flexible sets accommodate choreographer Josh Rhodes’ exuberant choreography, while William Ivey Long’s elaborate costumes are captivating and Paul Huntley’s wigs are disarmingly whimsical.
If you’re looking for the best holiday treat imaginable for a tiny tot, chose “Cinderella” – and you’ll have a great time too. It’s a charming crowd-pleaser.