The Flagler College Department of Performing Arts is excited to present their second spring production “Cinderella” from April 20-21 at 7:30 p.m. and April 22-23 at 2 p.m. This production is free for Flagler students, faculty, and staff; $5 per non-Flagler student ticket, or $15 per general admission ticket.
You may be familiar with the story of “Cinderella,” but you’re not going to want to miss Flagler’s take on Rodgers and Hammerstein’s version (1957) of the fairytale based on a book by playwright Douglas Carter Beane. Originally broadcasted on television, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s traditional rendition of “Cinderella” brings the characters to life through music and dance while staying true to story’s plot.
Flagler’s upcoming musical production of this fairytale embraces the beauty of the original Rodgers and Hammerstein score while telling a fresh and modern version of this tale that has stood the test of time. Flagler's production of “Cinderella” strays from the stereotypical tone of Disney's animated version by expanding on the character development and focusing on the theme "power of possibility."
In contrast to the traditional story, Flagler’s production places agency in the hands of the characters, a twist Assistant Director Mckenna McQueen thinks makes the story even more compelling. The musical’s plot centers around Ella’s desire to meet Prince Topher and open his eyes to injustice within the kingdom.
“Our production specifically recognizes and highlights that the power of possibility lies within Ella, who has the agency to facilitate positive change in the kingdom,” McQueen said. “We capitalize on the reality in the story and the magic becomes secondary to the idea of making the impossible possible using the power found within.”
McQueen said she is also excited about how the choreography and musical score will elevate the show to a whole new level.
“The ensemble plays a significant role in this show and really helps create the world of the musical,” McQueen said. “The dance numbers beautifully enhance the story and I think audiences will really enjoy watching them.”
With 30 people in the production’s cast and around sixteen people on the production team, McQueen said the casting process was more in-depth due to the nature of the show.
“It was a collaboration between the director, choreographer, and music director which involved a lot of important conversations before any final decisions were made,” McQueen said. “We are fortunate to have put together an incredible cast and are building a great sense of ensemble throughout this process.”
With her role in the production, McQueen was involved in leading the creative process. Although she worked alongside Director Kip Taisey, McQueen was given the opportunity to take charge and have creative control over directing a few of the scenes and musical numbers.
“This has all been creatively challenging in an incredibly rewarding way and I am grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow in a hands-on way,” McQueen said.
Flagler's Performing Arts Department production of "Cinderella" is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of The Rodgers & Hammerstein Organization. For more information on “Cinderella” click here. To view showtimes and to purchase tickets, please visit flagler.universitytickets.com or contact the Lewis Auditorium Box Office at (904) 826-8600.
If you need to request an accommodation due to a disability in order to provide reasonable access or participation, please contact the Director of the Disability Resource Center, Phil Pownall at Ppownall@flagler.edu. American Sign Language interpretation will be provided on Thursday, April 20 at the 7:30 p.m. show and on Saturday, April 22 at the 2 p.m. show.
