Tag: Broadway

Anastasia: A Journey to Past, Present, and Future

Published on by Kelly Deeny3 Comments

After Act I of Broadway’s ANASTASIA, my eight-year-old niece clapped so hard that I could feel her excitement in my soul. I turned to her and asked, “Abbey, what do you think so far?”  Her eyes smiled and her mouth followed.  “I love it!” I teared up, my spirit soaring like those of the lost princess’s family.

 I’m known in my immediate family as the Broadway one. I will burst out in song at a moment’s notice, play cast albums in my car until I know all the words, and talk about my favorite shows incessantly. The love I have for musical theatre is so firmly engrained within my soul that I’m certain I brought it with me upon birth.

 When Abbey, my oldest niece, was about two or three, she showed interest in musicals. We’d watch animated fairy tales together – her attention captured and joy reflected across her face. She asked my sister non-stop to rewatch the same movie until she knew all the songs by heart and would put on performances for the family.  Like this early one…

 

The animated film ANASTASIA, the story of the lost Romanov princess, is one of our favorites. I’d play the movie soundtrack for her, and she’d ask me to keep the song Once Upon a December on repeat. I promised to bring Abbey to NYC for her first Broadway show, and when she learned that ANASTASIA was going to be a stage musical, that became the must-see choice. Almost two years later we boarded a train for our journey to the present; one which inspired my niece’s future. IMG_5578 

Though now out of my thirties I still feel joy and anticipatory excitement up until the curtain rises and the overture begins. However, on this day my heart filled with love and happiness every time my niece smiled, sang along, or clapped. She tapped my shoulder during Once Up on a December as the stunning visual effects danced across the stage. “Look, Kelly! Did you see that?” As her eyes beamed, so too did my heart – moved by her experience.

 During intermission I walked her up to the souvenir kiosk, because I never go to a show without coming back with at least the program. She saw the collectible music box and though we both gravitated to it we looked at items closer to our price range. We returned to our orchestra seats with a glittery tote bag and a beautiful tiara/crown, which Abbey promptly put on and wore until our return train ride.

 The magical experience continued even after the curtain call when Abbey met “Anastasia” (aka Christy Altomare). As we waited with a crowd of other excited theatre-goers at the stage door line, I asked the tired 8-year-old if she wanted to stay.  “I want to see Anastasia,” she shyly replied. IMG_5602 So we waited our turn, getting autographs from other talented cast members, until the moment arrived. Christy smiled brightly and Abbey mirrored the action. They talked about Abbey’s crown/tiara and whether Abbey enjoyed her first Broadway show. The youngster got quiet, and the grown-ups chatted about our shared hometown (Bucks County, PA). Before we waved goodbye, the two Bucks County musical theatre dreamers smiled for a picture – the younger standing next to a young woman who made her Broadway dreams come true.

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“I forgot to tell her something,” Abbey burst out as we journeyed back to Penn Station. “I didn’t tell her that I’m taking musical theatre classes.” The frown pierced my heart and I pulled her in close. “It’s alright, sweet girl. Tell you what, I’ll send her a message on social media. We can write it together.”  Her smile returned as she walked hand in hand with both her mother and I, our arms swinging and our heads filled with music.

 Abbey’s declaration that one day she’ll be on Broadway warms my musical theatre heart, but I hope it fills her spirit with love, passion, and joy. I can’t wait to see what her journey to the future holds!

**ANASTASIA is currently playing at the Broadhurst Theatre. Visit the official website to learn more and purchase tickets.**

 

 

 

 

A Broadway Adventure

Published on by Kelly DeenyLeave a comment

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I’ve got my metaphorical dancing shoes on and am ready to celebrate the magnificence that is NYC theatre at the inaugural BroadwayCon event!

Okay, so maybe I’ll be wearing snow boots in lieu of ballet slippers as I flurry from one panel to another. However, the impending storm may cause headaches, schedule adjustments, and canceled sessions, but it won’t lessen my excitement.

I look forward to meeting other theatre fans and gaining insight from those in front of and behind the curtain.

Have you heard about 2016 BroadwayCon?

Published on by Kelly DeenyLeave a comment

Calling all Broadway fans! We’re getting our own convention!!!!

As you can tell from my overuse of exclamation points, I’m just “slightly” excited about the announcement of this event. I love theatre and am passionate about it’s ability to entertain, inform, and inspire. I support the art form and have great respect for the gifted artists on stage and behind the scenes who bring these shows to us 8 days a week for months, years, or decades.

Photo credit: Permission from 2016 BroadwayCon helpers!
Photo credit: Permission from 2016 BroadwayCon helpers!

The first-ever convention for Broadway artists and their fans takes place at the New York Hilton Midtown hotel from January 22-24, 2016. Tickets go on sale March 15, 2015 but check out the website to learn more about the ticket package options. Don’t delay or ponder, as you just may miss an opportunity to share in this inaugural event.

The BroadwayCon team just announced the first thirteen guests, which include artists I’ve seen perform live (Gavin Creel in Thoroughly Modern Millie, Jason Tam in A Chorus Line, and Andy Mientus in the recent revival of Les Misérables) and ones whose names I know but haven’t witnessed their talent firsthand. I’ve waited at the stage door after many a performance and saw the mutual admiration between the fans and the artists. The performers stop to sign souvenir books, take selfies, and say “Hello” to theatre-goers of all ages. I’m always grateful for the opportunity to tell them their work is appreciated and that they did a great job.

This conference sets the stage (*wink, wink*) for fans, artists, producers, and more to interact with and learn from one another. What an amazing opportunity for all of us!

Please visit the BroadwayCon website for the full range of details about tickets, special guests, hotel info, and more.

*DISCLAIMER: No endorsement from the BroadwayCon organizers, their affiliates, sponsors, or artists involved is implied.*

Entertainment Blogging Questions

Published on by Kelly DeenyLeave a comment

*I reached out to one TV network and received what amounted to a non-answer.  Hmm, I have a feeling this is going to take a lot of research and someone who understands legal-speak.*

Visit kellydeeny.com to read the Artistic Spirit Pledge entries.
Visit kellydeeny.com to read the Artistic Spirit Pledge entries.

As you can tell from the large gap between blog entries, I haven’t written any new “insights” about my favorite films, television shows, or theatre performances in a while.  Part of the reason is due to the 111 Day Artistic Spirit Pledge that I focused on from October until the end of January (the full list can be found on my author website). For 111 days, I wrote about the link between art (in its various forms) and spirituality.  Given my love for film, television, and theatre, many of the pledge entries were entertainment-focused.  Here are just some of the ones relevant to entertainment:

The other reason I haven’t written anything new is an admitted lack of knowledge and information about blogging rules and guidelines.  The idea that I could be infringing on copyright laws or improperly citing a TV show or film title (unintentionally, mind you) worries me enough to delay posting.  I went out into the great, wide world of the internet to search for “blogging about TV” or “entertainment blogging guidelines”, but found a lack of helpful information.  So, what do I want to know?

  • PHOTOS:  Including images in blog posts adds an extra layer of professionalism and helps catch a reader’s attention.  Yet, when writing about a film, tv show, or musical/play, can I include a photo?  If so, where do I find them and do I need to request permission in order to embed the image?
  • VIDEOS: Similar to photos, can I include clips of shows or movie trailers in my blog posts? If so, do I need permission or are they notified when I copy/paste an EMBED link?
  • TITLES/NAMES:  Whenever I mention a TV show, film, or musical/play, I always include a hyperlink (whenever available) to the original/official website.  I want to make sure that readers interested in learning more about the titles I write about can easily find the original source.  Are there guidelines/rules in place for including links to official sites of using the names or shows/performers?
  • TAGS:  Are there any restrictions to including a television network or actor’s name as a meta tag in a blog post entry?

I hesitated writing about this topic for fear that I would appear unprofessional or come off as an amateur.  Then, I realized there are probably many more entertainment fans (like myself) who are as interested in blogging about their favorite shows as I am.  I sincerely doubt I am the only one wondering about how we can best promote and support the industry without violating any copyright or infringement rules.

I’ve obtained some helpful feedback from fellow writers, but I am interested in expanding my knowledge of this specialty in the ever-advancing blogosphere.

 

Musical Theatre Review: Les Misérables

Published on by Kelly Deeny1 Comment

A haunting re-telling of a Broadway classic, the current staging of Les Misérables embodies all the aspects of the show that fans love with a rawness that adds a new perspective.

Throughout 25+ years and many adaptations, Les Misérables remains a beloved musical. With the newest Broadway revival gracing the Imperial Theatre’s stage, an entirely new generation of theatre-goers get to experience the sweeping music, powerhouse vocals, and moving story.

I was thoroughly impressed and moved to tears during a recent Saturday matinée performance, and here are just a few reasons why:

  • MUSIC AND LYRICS: Claude-Michel Schönberg and Alain Boublil’s tremendous score and profound lyrics lives with you long after the curtain closes.  This treasured musical makes in indelible impression on not only the performers but the audience, due in large part to the incredible music.  The melodies float as needed, like during the instrumental “Bring Him Home” reprise in Act Two.  The stunning harmonies of “Turning” echo the voices of not only those lost but of the ones left behind.
  • VOCALS:  The music of Les Misérables demands incredible vocal prowess.  You must be able to do justice to the beautiful yet powerful melodies while infusing emotion into the meaningful story.  Each cast member, principal and ensemble, achieves that and much more.  Just try not to cry during “Bring Him Home” or sympathize with his plight during “Who Am I”.  Bring a sweater, because you’ll get chills when Caissie Levy belts out “I Dreamed a Dream”.  When Will Swenson sings “Stars”, you understand what motivates Javert while also fully aware of his tormented soul.
  • GIFTED ARTISTS: If you are well-versed (pun intended) in musical theatre talent, then you’re already familiar with some of the gifted performers. The following actors excel in their craft, creating performances that are both memorable and heartfelt: On the day I saw this show, the Jean Valjean understudy, Aaron Walpole went on in the starring role and was tremendous. Given Aaron’s phenomenal job, I’m look forward to seeing Les Miz again to experience Ramin Karimloo’s award-winning interpretation of Valjean.  Will Swenson’s Javert embodies anger, righteous determination, and a conflicted soul, all of which this well-respected artist handles with ease and talent.  Caissie Levy breaks your heart as she balances Fantine’s unwavering love for her daughter and determination to keep fighting. Nikki M. James’ exquisite range is on display in her role as Éponine. She grabs hold of Éponine’s fiery personality, infusing fragility, tenderness, and selfless love to this iconic role.  As Marius, Andy Mientus takes us on a journey of self-discovery.  Marius’ youthful energy, adventurous side, and naïveté early on brings home the severity of what’s to follow. When Marius is thrust into situations that require him to re-examine his beliefs and what’s worth fighting for, we believe his plight due to Andy’s adept handling of the role.  Remember the names of Keala Settle (Madame Thénardier) and Samantha Hill (Cosette), as these two talented actresses will both surprise and impress.  The ensemble cast members enrich the production with subtle nuances and powerful moments, adding depth to each scene.  Pay close attention to the student rebel scenes, as these young men are both impressive and heartbreaking.
  • STORY: Based on Victor Hugo’s novel of the same name, this musical is not only a story about forgiveness and redemption but one about love. Whether that love takes shape in the form of friendship (rebels), family (Fantine/Jean Valjean/Cosette), or romantic entanglement (Éponine/Marius/Cosette), love guides the actions and intentions of the characters. As we sit in the audience, we’re invited to examine our own choices and perspective.  Do we choose hate instead of love?  Do we reach out to those in need or pass judgment?  Are our decisions based on a need for power and control, or are they guided by love for ourselves and others?

As soon as the lights dimmed and the familiar opening chords reverberated through the room, I smiled. This amazing theatrical work affects me not only on a musical level but a spiritual one as well.  I venture to guess that many of you would say the same. You may have seen the 2012 film version or saw Les Misérables during an earlier run, but I recommend experiencing this modern stage telling of Victor Hugo’s novel.

*DISCLAIMER: I do not have affiliation with any of the afore-mentioned talent or anyone associated with this production. No endorsement by the artists or musical mentioned is implied! I’m simply singing their praises!*

Theatre review: The Cripple of Inishmaan

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Go see THE CRIPPLE OF INISHMAAN on Broadway!  If you require more than just my word that it’s a fantastic show, keep reading.

Set on the island of Inishmaan in 1934, this poignant play makes you laugh, cry, and contemplate not only the actions of the characters but your own as well.  As this small village must face their own flaws and struggles, both internal and external, the audience reflects upon their own.  All of the above is possible due to a seamless blend of gifted actors, a talented playwright, and thought-provoking direction.  Let’s look deeper at each, shall we?

ACTING:  Each and every one of the performers who grace the “Inishmaan” stage at the Cort Theatre embody complexity, comedic excellence, and heartfelt performances.  From Broadway newcomers to veteran stage actors, this cast shines individually and as a team. One moment you’re laughing and the next you’re moved to tears.  The gifted acting ensemble weave in and out of comedy and drama with ease, giving their characters dimension and authenticity.  I applaud them all and with pride I list them here – DANIEL RADCLIFFE, INGRID CRAIGIE, PÁDRAIC DELANEY, SARAH GREENE, GILLIAN HANNA, GARY LILBURN, CONOR MacNEILL, PAT SHORTT, JUNE WATSON, HELEN CESPEDES, LESLIE LYLES, AIDAN REDMOND, and JOSH SALT.

WRITING: The talented cast may be the “face” of the play, but Martin McDonagh provided them with richly-layered dialogue and flawed yet immensely human characters from which to work with.  At times he takes you right to edge of offense only to interlace the darkness with witty humor and a reminder that we may not understand the characters’ choices/actions but perhaps have made similar ones ourselves.

DIRECTION:  Taking McDonagh’s words and entrusting them to a talented ensemble of actors, Michael Grandage guides us on a journey we won’t soon forget.  Each action has meaning, purpose, intention.  Every pause adds dimension to an already layered piece.  He’s created an environment where the performers and story are equally impressive.  One can not excel without the other.  He’s to be commended for creating a piece of theatre that will stay with you long after the curtain falls and the house empties.

Experience the multi-faceted dimensions of THE CRIPPLE OF  INISHMAAN sooner rather than later as it’s only at the Cort Theatre for a 14 week engagement.  You’ll be “cow”-ting your blessings that you did! (Wink, wink,  nudge, nudge for those of you who’ve already seen it.)

Please visit their website and connect through social media.

*No endorsement by those involved with THE CRIPPLE OF INISHMAAN intended or implied.*

Celebrating My Birthday and Entertainment

Published on by Kelly Deeny1 Comment

I’ll admit it; I was bummed that no one threw me a surprise party for my 30th birthday. Sound egocentric and ungrateful? Yeah, I thought so too. I decided to throw myself a birthday party the following year and themed it around my main interests: fairytales, music, musical theatre, and film/TV. I decorated the sunroom with princess tablecloths, plateware, and cups. I put music notes all around the house, hanging them from the ceiling and making them the centerpiece at the dining room table. My friend gave me a film clapboard, and I put up an entertainment-themed banner in the entryway of the TV room. We played “Kelly Trivia”, listened to musical theatre soundtracks, and enjoyed one another’s company. It remains a highlight in my life, and I look forward to throwing another one soon.

 

Birthdays are meant to celebrate YOU! You, with all your quirks, varying interests, and struggles. So many times I hear people say, “It’s just another day.” They don’t like celebrating their birthday. Want to avoid it at all costs. If the day passes without a “Happy Birthday” uttered, then it’s a good day. Even in the midst of low self-esteem and spiritual crisis, I always recognized the joy that was my day of birth. I felt special in a world that frequently promoted normalcy. You are important and deserve to be celebrated. So, next time your birthday comes around, consider throwing your own party. After all, it is a day about you and what/whom you love.

 

There are some birthdays that went by as any other – work/school, dinner at home, and watch TV at night. However, here’s just a few that stood out:

 

  • My Sweet Sixteen party was one of the most memorable birthday celebrations I can recall. I had a small-ish number of close friends over. We proceeded to watch The Mighty Ducks and my mom surprised me with a birthday cake adorned to look like a TV set. Written in icing was All My Children in the center of the cake. Boy, does she know me well! It was a perfect day because I was surrounded by people I cared about and we celebrated not only the anniversary of my birth day but mutual interests, good food, and laughter.

Sweet Sixteen cake

 

  • Last year, I celebrated my birthday in New York City (a place I consider to be a second home) with family and friends. We stood in line at the discount ticket booth in Times Square and got our tickets for Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella. We walked around the area, picked up a princess crown for me to wear, and had lunch at one of my favorite NYC restaurants: Ellen’s Stardust Diner. It was a beautiful day, and I was so grateful to share an interest of mine with people I love.

 

  •  This year, I originally thought to do something different than last year. Until I heard the amazing casting news from THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA;  Norm Lewis and Sierra Boggess will be on-stage together again as “The Phantom” and “Christine”. They played father and daughter in The Little Mermaid a few years ago. (Read the full news article here.)  You only need to watch the Les Misérables in Concert: 25th Anniversary to see and hear Norm’s brilliant talent. He gives me chills and makes me cry every time I watch it. He’s a perfect fit as “The Phantom”! Besides, I saw my first Broadway show around my birthday in 1994, and it was a show that Norm appeared in – The Who’s Tommy.  That show remains one of my favorites even twenty years later. The beauty in Sierra’s voice is matched with a beautiful spirit within. She’s a gifted artist who continuously promotes acceptance, self-love, and belief in one’s abilities. If you’re not already “following” Sierra on social media, you’re missing out on uplifting and insightful posts. Both Norm and Sierra excel in their craft due to a combination of exquisite vocal talent and magnificent acting skills.  Going to see these two phenomenal individuals on-stage together is a birthday treat to myself this year. And most definitely worth the expense!

 

I look forward to my birthday every year, because to be completely honest I’m very happy to be alive and sharing my life with an amazing family and tremendous group of friends. Those who know me well wouldn’t find it surprising that I decided to go to California during big award show weekends or that I planned themed parties in honor of my favorite Broadway musicals. They’d get a chuckle at the fact that the selection of music on my phone consists of animated films and vocalists known for their musical theatre talent. I’m proud to celebrate the artist within and cling tight to the empathetic spirit that guides me. I love who I am today, but am just as excited as who I’ll be five years from now. That’ll be a celebration!

 

Please click on the links listed within the post to learn more about the artists, shows, or business entities mentioned.

 

 

*DISCLAIMER:  No endorsement by any of the above-mentioned companies/artists is intended or implied.*

 

Music: The Unsung Hero in My Life

Published on by Kelly DeenyLeave a comment

Sing out – from the tips of your fingers to the top of your voice!

When I was younger, I took full advantage of the times when I was the only one home.  I put on my favorite musical theatre soundtracks, walked around the house, and sang with as much gusto as I could find.  I sat on the edge of the sofa, closed my eyes, and pictured myself on a Broadway stage.  I felt the music through every core of my being, the lyrical melodies sending waves of electricity through my body.

During beautiful Spring days at college, I’d roll my car windows down, blast my uplifting music, and sing along.  I didn’t care if people stopped to look at me as they sped passed on the highway.  Maybe it made them smile to see someone enjoying life and embracing art in the everyday moments.  I loved driving long distances by myself because I could play the music I loved and sing without disturbing anyone else.  It made the time fly by and helped decrease  my stress level when other drivers made careless decisions.

Every now and again I would decide to pursue my love of music.  I’d take voice lessons to strengthen the spiritually-moving gift within only to realize how much work it took to be a professional singer.  My voice has flaws, sure, but I love singing for the act of it.  I never put in the work to make it “better” or strengthen the muscle as music professionals deemed necessary.  I stopped singing, found it more difficult and my “gift” waning.  I couldn’t maintain a breath and frequently lost the pitch.  Every time I got up the courage to audition for a part or showcase my voice in a public forum, I walked away discouraged and disappointed in myself.  I doubted my ability and went back to the artistic outlet that others respond to – my written works.  I’d get frustrated with myself and return to my laptop instead. I still dream of performing on stage, but I don’t have the belief that it’ll happen any time soon. My focus right now is earning a living as a writer.

As I sat at my computer this morning, I listened to my collection of musical theatre favorites and sang along.  I felt the rush of energy surge through my chest, filling it with unwavering pride and love.   As long as I am physically able, I will continue singing.  It may not be in front of a room full of people or a packed theater, but I can’t imagine a day when I won’t be able to break out in song, sing my niece/nephews to sleep, or simply stand in the center of my living room and let my voice fill the void.

Music saved my life many times, and I have no doubt it will do so in the future.

WICKED Cool: Why This Musical “Defied” the Critics

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“The Wizard of Oz” was never one of my favorite films growing up.  I enjoyed it, don’t get me wrong, but I just couldn’t connect with it on an emotional level.  Many years later, the Broadway musical WICKED ended up becoming my all-time favorite show – topping even LES MISERABLES.  Trust me, that is quite a feat.

I consider myself a musical know-it-all, but in actuality I’m more of a know-it-most.  I’m well versed (hee hee) in shows of the past 15 years or so.  Beyond that, my range is minimal.  I listened mainly to the “classics”: Les Mis, Phantom of the Opera, Cats and Miss Saigon.  I only saw Les Mis on stage twice, but I had the entire album memorized.  To this day it is not uncommon for me to break out in song.  Just say Papa and I’ll start with “Papa, Papa, I do not understand…” and sing the rest of the Epilogue.  Not only does the story take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions but the music matches in intensity.  I never expected another show to affect me as much as LES MISERABLES has, yet WICKED achieved that and more!

In 2003, I heard about a new Broadway musical that starred Idina Menzel (RENT) and Kristin Chenoweth (You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown).  It is a story about the witches of Oz, told from a very different perspective than popular culture is familiar with.  I knew instantly that I wanted to see this show…HAD to see this show.  I started reading the novel it is based on, more on that later, and was 3/4 through by the time I saw the show in the spring of 2004.  I sat next to my mother in the orchestra level of the theater, the smile plastered on my face even before the lights in the house dimmed.  From the first swell of the music and mesmerizing visuals, I knew this would be an adventure of a lifetime.

Every single moment of WICKED affected me on not only an artistic level but a spiritual and emotional one as well.  This is not only a story about friendship and standing up for what you believe, though both play a significant role in the overall success of the piece.  More importantly, in my opinion, WICKED soars due to its ability to knock down walls and expectations, especially those we define ourselves by.  It’s up to us to define ourselves and the choices we make; to soar to new heights, overcome unreasonable and sometimes cruel restrictions, and defy that which holds us down.

If you have yet to see this brilliant musical, put it on your must-see list!  Regardless of whether people singing on stage is not your “thing”, keep an open mind.  You might just gain appreciation for not only the power of musical theater but of your own capability too.

*To learn more about the incredible novel of which the musical is based, click here to read more about Gregory Maguire or buy any, or all, of the WICKED series.*

A Magical Delight: Rodgers + Hammerstein’s CINDERELLA

Published on by Kelly Deeny1 Comment

*UPDATED 1/5/2015 – This fantastic and heartwarming show just closed on Broadway, but is now on tour!*

Showing 8 times a week at the Broadway theatre, Rodgers + Hammerstein’s CINDERELLA is designed for theatre-goers of all ages!  With music that gets you humming along, costume changes that leave you puzzled and a stellar cast of brilliant talents, this classic musical exudes charm, elegance, and an overall joyful experience.

I’ll admit that the first time I heard any of the music from this version of the fairy tale princess’ story was from watching the TV movie with Whitney Houston and Brandy.  Since Cinderella was always one of my two favorite princesses I gravitated to this version.  I found the songs enchanting, the costumes stunning and the message as inspiring as ever – that kindness, decency, love and hope can make even the most impossible of dreams quite possible.  In 1997, when I was 20 years old, I watched the movie numerous times – rewinding (yes, this was during the time of VHS tapes) my favorite songs so that I could memorize them and sing them around my house.  I even broke out singing “In My Own Little Corner” while cleaning up the tossed pillow section during my shift at the local bedding store I worked at.  The store was closed, no one was around and the music just came flooding out.

The current Broadway staging of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s CINDERELLA provides us with catchy melodies, a beautiful score and an inspiring message.  If you believe in yourself, hold on to your dreams, and fight for them you can overcome even the steepest of mountains.  The music creates the mood and moves the story along, but the set design, lighting and costumes add ambiance to an already stunning show.  The sets are simplistic, mobile and don’t overpower the action or actors on-stage.  They tell us where we are without the necessity of overwhelming us with too much detail.  “Cinderella’s” home features wood construction with subdued accents – a reflection of the simple life in which they live.  That setting works to contrast the vivid colors that “Madame” and her daughters wear.  It hits home to us that while “Cinderella’s” attire blends into the natural tones of the home, her stepmother does all she can to not fit in.  The costumes accent the setting with colors that pop, especially when set against the stark white contrast of the palace setting.  They shimmer, they sparkle and they morph before our eyes with the flick of a wand!  Leaving the audience to “Ooo” and “Ah” then ponder “Wait, how did they do that?”

While the setting reflects the story, and the music creates the mood, the performers put all the pieces together.  This marvelously talented cast includes both well-known stage veterans and newcomers alike.  Yet, each one holds their own – allowing the individual character a range of emotions and vitality.  The hysterical Ann Harada, as “Charlotte”, balances a larger-than-life persona while also giving this self-involved stepsister a layer of depth and conflict.  Marla Mindelle embraces the various layers of “Gabrielle’s” personality.  We see and understand the young girl’s struggle to honor her mother’s wishes even though her dreams and wants differ significantly.

As “Madame”, the brilliant Harriet Harris keeps the stepmother from becoming too one-dimensional.  She adds moments of conflict that you can find believable, despite her characters clearly deplorable treatment of our beloved “Cinderella”.  Her comedic timing is impeccable and her talent continues to impress.  The exceptional Victoria Clark portrays “Marie”, the main character’s confidante and support system.  Her stunningly powerful vocal ability sends chills down your spine while lifting your spirit.

And last, but certainly not least, the show’s power couple – “Cinderella” and her prince.  Laura Osnes owns the title character from the moment she graces the stage.  She moves across it with ease, reflecting “Ella’s” effortless joy despite the girl’s family situation.  She makes you believe, wholeheartedly, that people such as this exist.  That kindness, warmth and a zeal for life have the ability to effect everyone they come into contact with; that doesn’t even begin to include Ms. Osnes’ ethereal voice.  Beauty, regal and joy –  those were the three terms I thought of first as I listened to her sing “In My Own Little Corner”.  A phenomenal talent, Laura has rightly received both critical and popular praise for her work in this show.  She gives “Ella” heart without making her sickly sweet.  You believe that she truly means what she says while yearning for a life that seems out of her reach.

To my delightful surprise, my favorite character was “Topher”.  Newcomer, Santino Fontana, takes us on an enjoyable ride as the prince struggles to figure out who he is and what role he truly wants to play in his own life and that of the villagers.  He’s got charm, charisma and a voice that melts your heart.  Plus, he gives the young prince a playfulness that doesn’t make him appear cocky or dim-witted.  He wants to grow.  Wants to change.  And little by little he comes into his own.  This young man is destined to have a long career on Broadway and I am glad he’s been recognized during this award season!  Together, Laura and Santino complement one another perfectly!  They play off one another’s strengths and they harmonize, not only in music, but in stage presence.

I definitely recommend going to see the current revival of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s CINDERELLA at the Broadway Theatre.  Whether you’re a five-year-old girl dressed in her favorite princess gown or a thirty-something birthday girl singing along to one of her favorite shows, it’ll provide you with a delightful experience that children of all ages can enjoy!