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"Cinderella" delights but lacks real magic
As Rodgers and Hammerstein's only musical written for television, "Cinderella" has has been transported off the screen and onto stages numerous times. Starlight Theatre's production is another such attempt. As the theatre's second self-produced show of the season, it's a delight for all ages who dare to dream the impossible.
On a hot July Tuesday night, with a gracious slight breeze, audience members young and old packed into Starlight’s outdoor amphitheatre for the Rodgers and Hammerstein version of one of the most popular fairy tales. Cinderella is Starlight’s fourth production of the season and its second self-produced show.
A familiar face from last summer graced the stage as the gorgeous Cinderella. Kara Lindsay appeared for the first time in the 2010 Kansas City premiere of Little House on the Prairie when she portrayed the eager, independent, and frequently stubborn Laura Ingalls Wilder. As Cinderella, Lindsay brought spunk and sparkle again, which ignited the young princesses in the audience. Her energy lit up the stage once the curtain opened as Cinderella bumped into the disguised Prince in the village. In a clumsy, nervous act, Cinderella lost her shoe, foreshadowing the more famous glass slipper scene.
The first act introduced all of the story’s familiar characters as everyone prepared for the main event, the royal ball. Local artist Melinda MacDonald, who played Queen Maisie, had a beautiful, stately voice with a smooth and calming soprano. MacDonald joyfully juxtaposed the cheery, yet disorderly, King Max (Whit Reichert.) Claybourne Elder as the Prince was particularly stiff and vapid in contrast to Lindsay’s animated portrayal, preventing them from having a believable attraction. Elder did have a handsome presence and voice, but would be better suited for a more illustrious role. Tina Johnson as the zany Fairy Godmother appeared to be trying to hard.
Probably the most amusing of the entire cast was the threesome made up of the Stepmother (Paula Leggett Chase) and her daughters Joy and Portia. Laura E. Taylor played Joy, the lankier of the two with her Who-like hair. Each of Taylor’s actions were precise and apropos, from her snotty strut to her witty vernacular. Portia, performed by Shannon Connolly, was less intelligent and engaging but still a comical delight. All three had perfectly shrill voices, whether talking or singing (though Connolly’s speaking voice sounded shocking similar to that of Tracy Turnblad), and they commanded attention, provoked laughter, and hands down had the best chemistry. The most entertaining scenes of the night were “The Stepsisters’ Lament” and “A Lovely Night.”
Tying all of the leads together was the professional adult ensemble, as well as the enjoyable Blue Star All-Star Teen Chorus and the Children’s Chorus. The teens and children were fantastic, remaining enthusiastic throughout and carrying themselves as skilled actors and actresses. The main ensemble was pleasing in the first half during the town scenes and dance piece, but appeared tired and bored during the second act while at the ball. Most fared much better at singing than dancing as technique, posture and unity were hard to come by. Luckily everyone perked up toward the end during the search and wedding sections. Even Elder showed a glimpse of passion as the couple began their happily ever after.
During the two-hour show, there were intermittent technical issues with the microphones, which made the lines and song lyrics indistinguishable at times. The orchestra under the direction of Anthony Edwards and lighting designer Sean Glass executed their talents successfully. The quality of costumes was slightly disappointing, especially Cinderella and the Fairy Godmother’s dresses, and the overbearing scenery was far from functional or lavish. Cinderella’s quick change into her golden ball gown was noticeable from the house sides as was Fairy Godmother’s cloudy entrance through the window.
Cinderella was not an extraordinary, enthralling affair, typical to most Rodgers and Hammerstein productions. More akin to a theatre in the park presentation, Starlight’s Cinderella was still a delight for all ages, especially those who dare to dream the impossible.
REVIEW:
Starlight Theatre
Cinderella
July 25-31, 2011 (Reviewed Tuesday, July 26)
Starlight Theatre
4600 Starlight Road, Kansas City, MO
For more information, visit www.kcstarlight.com
Top Photo: Kara Lindsay as Cinderella in Starlight Theatre's production
Dance Contributor
Laura Vernaci is a Kansas City native who has always been passionate about the arts, particularly dance. She began dance lessons at the young age of five and hasn't stopped since. She trained at the Kansas City Ballet where she became a serious dancer and learned about a professional company.
She attended Butler University in Indianapolis, IN where she majored in dance. She transferred to Truman State University in Kirksville, MO in 2006 and received a degree in Journalism in May 2008. Laura spent the 2008-2009 in Duluth, MN dancing professionally for the Minnesota Ballet. She performed in productions such as, "The Nutcracker," "Cinderella" and "Coppelia" as well as world premier ballets created on the company.
She recently moved back to Kansas City and is excited to combine her experience in writing with her passion for dance. In addition to performing and writing, Laura also enjoys teaching dance and choreographing.
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