Crown Point High School Theatre presents Rodgers + Hammerstein’s “Cinderella”

Crown Point High School Theatre presents Rodgers + Hammerstein’s “Cinderella”

Crown Point High School (CPHS) Theatre lifted the curtain on their Spring Musical, Rodgers + Hammerstein’s “Cinderella,” on Friday evening. An adaptation of the classic fairy tale, the CPHS crew brings to life a musical love story of magic, dance, and a few additions new to those who might be familiar with Disney’s rendition.

“Cinderella” is one of CPHS Theatre’s most ambitious productions to date, according to the cast and crew. It features a dynamic set, with palatial walls and magic carriages – and each cast member has three detailed costumes to swap throughout the show.

Crown Point High School Presents Cinderella 2023

Crown Point High School Presents Cinderella 2023 42 Photos
Crown Point High School Presents Cinderella 2023Crown Point High School Presents Cinderella 2023Crown Point High School Presents Cinderella 2023Crown Point High School Presents Cinderella 2023

“We knew that Cinderella would be exciting, fun, happy, and magical,” said Jill Ryan, assistant director. “That’s what we wanted for this year, and the students have worked so hard. They’re doing amazing. We’re so confident in them and we know that this show is going to blow everybody away.”

The story of the Rodgers + Hammerstein version of Cinderella is expanded compared to the famous Disney animation. The Prince, now named Topher (short for Christopher), is a skilled dragon slayer who battles self-doubt about his ability to govern. Cinderella’s stepsisters, called Gabrielle and Charlotte, are expanded beyond being simple bullies. 

Gabrielle, played by freshman Triniti Colbert, is a rather shy girl with a crush on a local revolutionary named Jean-Michel.

“I’m extremely excited, and feeling a little bit of nerves,” Colbert said. “I’m excited to show people what I’ve brought to this character, and how we’ve grown and put together.”

David Aganon, a sophomore, is the Jean-Michel understudy, as well as a core member of the ensemble of supporting actors. He buzzed with excitement before the curtains rose on opening night, and explained why he has found “Cinderella” a compelling production.

“We’ve brought so much passion, so much joy, and even the pit crew below us could see it,” he said. “It’s meant to be magical. It’s there to entertain. It’s there to have a laugh, and a few emotional moments for people of all ages. There’s something there for everyone.”

Olivia Helmuth, a senior who performs as Charlotte, stressed the amount of hard work and preparation that the cast and crew have put into the show. She called special attention to the costumes and elaborate period ensembles including dresses and coatees.

“Mrs. [Leslie] Bonner is the one that’s been doing our costumes and she’s gone all out for this,” she said. “Everything is super over-the-top and I love it. I’ve never been part of a show that’s as dramatic, fun, and silly. We’ve put a lot of hard work into the show, and it’s paid off. The last couple of rehearsals we’ve done have been incredible, some of the best work we’ve ever done. I’m excited to show the audience what we’ve put together.”

There is still plenty of time to see CPHS Theatre’s “Cinderella” on stage, with showings on March 11 and 18 at 7 p.m., and March 11, 12, 18, and 19 at 2 p.m. Visit CPHS Theatre’s website at sites.google.com/cps.k12.in.us/cphstheatre/home to buy tickets.