Show Synopsis

The story concerns a young woman forced into a life of servitude by her cruel stepmother, who dreams of a better life. With the help of her Fairy Godmother, Cinderella is transformed into an elegant young lady and is able to attend the ball to meet her Prince, but, in this version, she must open the Prince Topher's eyes to the injustice in his kingdom. The Prince's parents have died, leaving the kingdom in the hands of a villainous prime minister, who has been the Prince's mentor and has duped his young charge into approving oppressive legislation. The rebel Jean-Michel, a new character, and stepsister Gabrielle are in love, and the two seek to overthrow the government. The score includes the best-known songs from the original version and features four songs from the Rodgers and Hammerstein catalogue.

Character Descriptions

Ella:

Though no one notices her beneath her rags and quiet demeanor, she is opinionated, charismatic, passionate, beautiful and funny. Idealistic and hopeful, she courageously challenges the prince to change the policies of his kingdom - and helps him discover who he truly is. Always her late father's daughter, she is determined to see the good in everyone despite her hardships and suffering. We see her blossom into a confident woman. (Soprano B3-Eb5)

Topher:

A misguided and lost prince who longs to do something important with his life. Though brave and heroic, he feels lonely and unfulfilled. Charming but NOT a stereotypical ladies' man, he is thoughtful, appealing and innocent - with an unforced goofy streak. Moral, genuine and kindhearted, he is at a crossroads and must take control of his kingdom and his future. (Baritone C#3-A4)

Madame:

Ella's selfish stepmother. The epitome of vanity and fashion. A ravenous social climber who values wealth, status and material possessions above all else. Unapologetically dismissive and sometimes cruel, Madame schemes her way up the social ladder. Open to any gender. (C4-D5)

Sebastian:

The kingdom's Lord Chancellor. Though he is Topher's trusted advisor, he is devious and selfish. Using propaganda and dishonesty, he keeps Topher isolated and in the dark about his kingdom. Sebastian rules without regard for the lower class, or anyone other than itself - and he truly believes he deserves to rule the kingdom. (Baritone C3-F4)

Marie:

A friend to Ella and the town's resident crazy lady and beggar woman, Marie is actually a fairy godmother in disguise. Wise, warm, otherworldly and charming, Marie rewards Ella for her kindness by making her dreams a reality. (Soprano A3-Ab5)

Gabrielle:

Ella's stepsister and daughter of Madame. Encouraged by her mother and sister to value material wealth and social status, she unenthusiastically joins them in their abrasive behavior. Quietly passionate, empathetic and witty, she is drawn to Ella and Jean-Michel. Ironically aware that she doesn't fit in. (Soprano C4-G5)

Charlotte:

Ella's stepsister and daughter of Madame. Brash, self-centered, materialistic, snooty, loud, sassy and bratty, she has a ridiculously high, but unfounded, opinion of herself. She never passes up and opportunity to be the center of attention. Open to any gender (B3F5)

Jean-Michel:

A feisty, passionate peasant determined to make a change for the starving class. Impetuous. A firebrand, but lacks authority and isn't taken seriously as a revolutionary. Has a crush on Gabrielle, though their courtship is forbidden because they are from different social classes.

Lord Pinkleton:

The Lord Chancellor's right-hand man. Announces royal balls, banquets and even weather to the villagers. (Tenor D3-A4)

Footman, Coachman, Giant, Knights, Peasants, Serfs, Townspeople, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Court, Servants, etc