Theatre to stage Cinderella, tea party included

What would a performance of “Cinderella” be without a tea party?

Heidelberg University Theatre is inviting community children to come to a tea party prior to two upcoming matinee performances of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s timeless Golden Age musical “Cinderella.” At the tea party, the children will have an opportunity to meet Cinderella and Prince Topher, get their photo taken with them, enjoy a snack of juice and cookies, and stay and watch the show.

There are plenty of additional opportunities to check out Cinderella -- sans tea party -- and see the Theatre's new adaptation of the classic musical: Thursday, April 7, at 7:30 p.m.; Friday, April 8, at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, April 9 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, April 10 at 2 p.m.

“Cinderella” tells the tale of a young girl forced into a life of servitude by her cruel stepmother. She dreams of a better life, and with the help of her Fairy Godmother, she is transformed into an elegant young lady and is able to attend the ball to meet her Prince. The performance features some of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s most beloved songs, including “In My Own Little Corner,” “Impossible/It’s Possible” and “Ten Minutes Ago.” This adaptation of the classic musical features new characters, a hilarious libretto, surprising twists and an unforgettable score.

Cast in the lead roles of Cinderella and Prince Topher are Lizzie Bowman and Gavin Buurma. The remaining cast includes: Marie/Godmother, Jasmine Ridler; Madame, Gretta Griesbach; Gabrielle, Audrey Warren; Charlotte, Natalie Joritz, Pinkleton, Garrett Hummel; Sebastian, Jadon Muniz; and Jean-Michel, Caira Goldstein.

The Male Ensemble is comprised of: Zach Abraham, Jack Mills, Ben Neiberlein, Ben Pollizi, Gage Hill, Jackson Helmholtz and Nick Talion.

The Female Ensemble is comprised of: Lexy Saxon, Rebecca Eppard, Bailee Coss, Riley Ameel, Hannah Schoen, Chantres Dewitt, Kylee Kent, Elayna Brock, Juniper Stalnaker, Khadijah Kennedy, Bri Clark, Taylor Richardson and Zaria Keys.

The director is Stephen Svoboda, assistant professor of theatre. Theatre instructor David Cotter is the musical director. Guest artists Pamela Shirtz (choreographer), Ryan Douglass (scenic designer) and Max Levitt (costume designer) are lending their professional talents to the production. 

Reserve your tickets for “Cinderella” at gundlachtheatre.org.