The Tennessee Performing Arts Center is hosting another Rodgers and Hammerstein production- this time the illustrious “Cinderella.”
This production combines the elements of the classic Cinderella story with a contemporary twist.
According to the TPAC’s press release, this version of Cinderella is “a contemporary figure living in a fairytale setting. She is a spirited young woman with savvy and soul who doesn’t let her rags or her gown trip her up in her quest for kindness, compassion, and forgiveness…She not only fights for her own dreams but forces the prince to open his eyes to the world around him and realize his dreams, too.”
Will Blum, an actor travelling with the production, plays the part of an added character, Jean Michel, one of the many additions and creative twists on the story, who, in Blum’s words, is an important ingredient to the recipe for modern relevance.
“While he might not be the most important character in ‘Cinderella’–I suggested changing the title to ‘Jean-Michel: A Revolutionary Musical,’ his story helps connect the importance of kindness, and that when we acknowledge the love we all have in our hearts, whether you’re a poor guy screaming on a soapbox, or a Prince on a throne, we are all on,” Blum said.
It seems as though Rodgers and Hammerstein have put an interesting and compelling twist to this classic story. There will be some surprises, as Rodgers and Hammerstein do always bring something fresh to the table.
Not only does the story have an interesting contemporary shift, it is accompanied by music written by Rodgers, lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, scenic design by Tony Award nominee Anna Louizos, costume design by six-time Tony Award winner William Ivey Long, lighting design by Tony Award winner Kenneth Posner and sound design by Tony Award nominee Nevin Steinberg.
“I always say, the content of the show dictates how you act off-stage. In a show about kindness, it is no surprise that this is the kindest group of people I have ever worked with. I’ve had the opportunity to do some amazing shows on Broadway, on tour, and at regional theaters all around the country, but I’ve never encountered a group like this,” commented Will Blum
The show will run from Oct. 20 to Oct. 25 in the Andrew Jackson Hall. Tickets are already on sale at TPAC.org or at the TPAC box office at 505 Deadrick Street in downtown Nashville for $20 to $60, depending on where you want to sit.
TPAC always strives to bring a beautiful, engaging, and fun performance to its audience. “Cinderella” will be no different- a playful adaptation of the classic fairy tale.
This article was written by Erik Gleim. Photo courtesy of Tennessee Performing Arts Center.