REGION — Encinitas-based Ovation Theatre is set to present Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella,” a fresh, new take on the timeless tale of love, hope and a glass slipper.
Opening Jan. 11 at Palomar College’s Howard Brubeck Theatre in San Marcos, the performance is directed by the award-winning team of artistic director Pamela Laurent, music director Scott Gregory and choreographer Susie Dycus.
The production features a cast of actors from across North County, including Mission Vista High School senior Chiara Mangiamele as Ella, La Costa Canyon High School junior and Broadway San Diego semi-finalist Justin Lee as Prince Topher, San Dieguito Academy senior Samantha Kates as the fairy godmother and junior Olivia Adao as the cruel stepmother, and Maranatha Christian High School junior Gia Newhan and recent Del Norte High School graduate Ellia Samouris as Ella’s stepsisters.
According to Ovation Theatre, Rodgers + Hammerstein’s “Cinderella” celebrates empowerment, love, and the magic of believing in oneself.
The story follows Ella, a young woman treated as a servant by her cruel stepmother and stepsisters, as she dreams of a brighter future. When she crosses paths with Prince Topher, a young ruler unsure of his path, their shared moment ignites a journey of self-discovery and courage. With the help of her fairy godmother, Ella transforms for a royal ball, where she not only captures the prince’s heart but also inspires him to become the leader his kingdom needs.
“I’ve always been captivated by the magic of Cinderella, so the chance to bring this beloved story, with its iconic Rodgers and Hammerstein score, to North County is a dream come true,” Laurent said. “This new production is a fresh and modern take, with a stronger, more relatable heroine. I can’t wait to share this enchanting experience with our audience.”
Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella” will play January 11, 12 and 17-19. For tickets, showtimes and more information, visit ovationtheatre.org/cinderella.
Get a sneak peek into the making of the production on TikTok @OvationTheatre, Instagram @ovationtheatreshows and Facebook @ovationtheatre.
