The Bushnell, Hartford, CT
through January 17, 2016
by Sharon & Gwen Smith
Finding your happy ending is a pursuit that almost everyone,
young and old can relate to and so, too, will theatergoers of all ages find
something they can enjoy about the current touring version of “Rodgers +
Hammerstein’s Cinderella”.
Douglas Carter Beane updated the script in 2013 for (can you
believe?) the show’s first Broadway run. Going back to the fairytale’s original
French roots to avoid comparisons to a certain film version, he found details
that flesh out both the Prince and his kingdom and how they both benefit from
Ella’s kindness.
Impressive technical achievements abound. The scenic design
of Anna Louizos is colorful, practical, and fluid, especially in the opening
forest-set number, “Me, Who I Am.” From small cottages, to spectacular
staircases, the scenery enhances every aspect of the show. The costume design
of William Ivey Long goes far beyond the practicality of helping create
characters; they practically become characters themselves, as they take on life
changing roles of their own.
The score, by the indubitable duo of Richard Rodgers and
Oscar Hammerstein II, includes tender ballads such as “In My Own Little
Cottage,” the classic “Impossible” and rousing productions such as “The Prince
is Giving a Ball”. This last number was highlighted by spectacular choreography
and strong, physical dancing by the company. The ball, too, featured a youthful
exuberance one would not expect in such a formal setting.
With the surprisingly contemporary take giving his Prince
more depth, (including a real name: Topher), Andy Huntington Jones cuts a
dashing figure, with a fine voice and kind heart. Of course, the show is
nothing without the right Cinderella, and Kaitlyn Davidson is the complete
princess package, with a winning smile, lilting voice, and endearing presence.
Each supporting character lends a little magic to the proceedings, especially
Kimberly Faure as one of the not really so evil stepsisters and the enchanting
fairy godmother played by Liz McCartney.
With every aspect of the show exhibiting a touch of stage
magic, this production of “Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella” is, as the song
suggests, “ A Lovely Night” of musical theatre.
