Cinderella tickets go on sale Nov. 12 (11-08-07)
Photo By Kacey Stamats
Along with stringing lights and hanging wreaths, attending the Adams State College Theatre Department's annual holiday production has become a San Luis Valley tradition. "Cinderella" tickets go on sale Nov. 12, call 719-587-TIXX for reservations. Tickets are $9 for general public, $7 for seniors and students, and $5 for children 12 and under, and free to Associated Students and Faculty.
The play, directed by Dr. Paul Newman opens at 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 30 on the Main Stage and continues at 8 p.m. Dec. 1, 6, 7 & 8; there is one matinee at 2 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 2. The Dec. 9 matinee sold out by a special offer through the Alumni Relations Office and the school matinees scheduled for Dec. 4 and 5 have also sold out.
An orchestra pit, a horse drawn carriage, snow, and magic makes this classic a memorable experience for children of all ages. "This adaptation, written by John B. Davidson for children, is not your Disney fairytale," Newman said. "In this version Cinderella manifests her fairy godmother as a symbol of her hope, courage, strength, and beauty that has not been crushed out by her evil stepfamily."
Attending the ball is the biggest decision of her life. She defies her family's orders to experience one beautiful, brilliant memory to sustain her for the rest of her life. Even when she meets the prince and he falls instantly in love, she knows it is just a dream, a memory."
According to Newman this production of "Cinderella," is in the British panto tradition. "The British panto was made popular during the Victorian Age," he said. "One characteristic of British panto are olios, musical numbers played between scenes." Student Charles Dickinson is the music director and he will conduct the small orchestra.
The stepsisters are notoriously evil and in the British panto tradition are played by male actors. "I cast three of the funniest actors in our program," Newman said. Many appearing on stage are well-known, seasoned actors including Beth Tantanella as Cinderella; Josh Streeter, a stepsister; and Zach Burrell, stepmother.
"The audience talks back to the stepfamily, another quality of British panto," Newman said. The play is a collaboration between departments on campus and through the community. Beverly Mozzetti choreographed the dancing, and the play features her dancers; Gene Schilling, professor of art, designed and painted the set; Jenna Neilsen, assistant professor of theater, built 13 costumes; a special effects artist designed the magic wand, and Roxann and Christopher Sittler sponsored the production.
"'Cinderella' is visually stunning," Newman said. "It is a really exciting and fun production."
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