‘Cinderella’ at JStage Irvine

OC Theatre Guild
15 hours ago
4 min read

A fairy tale with heart, humor, and modern twists.

From Left: Hillary Mead, Samantha Leone and Paige Zell (Photo courtesy of JStage Irvine)

by Shannon Cudd

Even veteran theatergoers may be surprised to learn that Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein’s beloved show “Cinderella” did not reach Broadway until 2013. The musical originated as a 1957 television special written so Julie Andrews could shine in the title role. It was so popular that it was revived for television in 1965 with Lesley Ann Warren getting that glass slipper. In 1997 Brandy found true love and a crown with some help from her fairy godmother Whitney Houston. Broadway’s Cinderella was Laura Osnes and introduced a brand-new book by Douglas Carter Beane. Each iteration includes slightly different songs and small plot changes.

So when producer Nicole Rosenson and artistic and show director Carina Morales decided to tackle the classic fairy tale at J Stage, they had to choose between four different versions. They went with the Enchanted Edition, based on the 1997 television special.

“I have always loved this particular version of Cinderella. It is funny, witty and full of heart. It was a version that resonated with me as a kid and I’m so excited that we have the chance to bring it to our community now,” Rosenson said.

From Left: Katelynn Ostler and Noah Chin (Photo courtesy of JStage Irvine)

This show fits perfectly into J Stage’s overall ethos. “J Stage's mission is to provide accessible, high-quality theatrical experiences for audiences and artists alike,” Morales explained. “I think our audiences will really enjoy this classic, family-friendly musical and our talented cast will love bringing an honest, fresh take to it!”

Morales is excited to put her unique fingerprint on this production. “My vision for this show is an unabashedly silly and heartwarming retelling of the beloved rags-to-riches story that explores timeless themes of transformation, resilience, hope and kindness,” she gushed.

Morales and production designer Haven Hanson collaborated to create dynamic visuals for a whimsical fairy-tale world with some unique twists. “The world of our show is a broadly romanticized kingdom evocative of 18th-century Europe, with a scenic aesthetic like a storybook illustration and lavish period costumes that have been carefully crafted down to the last detail. Though, in our playful version of Cinderella’s world, you might also find a wayward pop culture reference, unexpected slang from the 1990s, a tap-dancing puppet at the butcher’s shop or other whimsical surprises!”

Every fairy tale has its speed bumps – the road to true love never runs completely smooth. But that’s what makes it even more spectacular when it’s finally achieved. “Cinderella” is no exception. When asked what the most challenging scene to stage was, Morales responded:

From Left: Noah Chin and Will Minton (Photo courtesy of JStage Irvine)

“The transformation scene at the end of Act One will feature a less-than-five-second onstage costume change in full view of the audience, a 20-foot mobile carriage large enough to seat Cinderella and the Fairy Godmother, small children portraying mice, puppets, special effects, music, fairy-tale magic and more!”

As the producer, Rosenson had to make sure the magic was within budget. Thankfully the creative team made that easy. “J Stage is part of a larger organization here at the J, and our program is given very specific budget guidelines. I am lucky enough to collaborate with an incredibly talented creative team who never cease to amaze me with what they are able to accomplish within the budget they are given,” she explained.

It was also important for Morales to make these fairy-tale characters relatable to the audience. “The characters in our version of this story are decidedly larger than life, while remaining sympathetic and engaging as real people with genuine thoughts and feelings,” she explained. “All character actions, reactions, ideas, schemes, capers, shenanigans and even slapstick moments – no matter how absurd – are played with the utmost honest intentions on the part of the actors. It is my firm and tested belief that truthful acting always makes the comedic moments funnier and the touching moments resonate more deeply. In rehearsals we always approach every moment – comedic, dramatic or ridiculous – first through a lens of honesty and organic reaction. I tell my actors that they can go as big as they want as long as they believe it.”

Katelynn Ostler (Photo courtesy of JStage Irvine)

The result is a show audiences are not going to want to miss. When asked what she hopes the audience takes away from the show, Rosenson replied: “I hope they experience the joy and magic that I felt as a kid watching this show. I hope they walk away feeling like anything is possible and that you have the power to create your own destiny. I also hope they walk away singing the wonderfully catchy songs featured in this version of the show!”

Morales couldn’t agree more. “Our take on this classic story features nuanced and specific storytelling, showcases a talented and passionate cast of actors and boasts bespoke costumes, beautiful sets and exciting special effects. I can’t wait for audiences of all ages to experience this joyful musical,” she concluded.