Stage Review
'Cinderella' story still has plenty of charm
By Joseph T. Rozmiarek
Advertiser Drama Critic
Just in time to answer the question of what else to do with the kids this summer, Diamond Head Theatre has reprised its production of Rodgers and Hammerstein's "Cinderella."
4 p.m. today Diamond Head Theatre Repeats Thursday and July 13-14 and 19-21 at 8 p.m.; and July 15 and 22 at 4 p.m. $10-$40 733-0274
DHT last staged the musical in September 1999, added performances and sold out tickets. So there seems to be a demand out there for the show, despite it not being among the best in the R&H library of favorites. Its songs have not entered the American subconscious like those from "The Sound of
•
'Cinderella'
Music" or "The King and I." And while it shouldn't hurt to be familiar with the plot, the predictable story line, strung out over three acts, makes for a tedious first act that leaves much of the audience yawning and stretching at intermission.
That said, the show still has plenty of charm, which director John Rampage recreates from the original DHT production with a mix of new and reprised performances.
The central couple are both new. Tara Hunt is a wonderfully warm and winning Cinderella, with a rich voice that excellently articulates both lyrics and dialogue. She gives the part abundant goodwill, suggesting that — if one simply remains patient and steadfast — a prince will surely come. While
Jason Wells as the Prince lacks a remarkable singing voice, he looks the part and sings well enough to preserve the romance.
In this show, the romantic duo need only look and sound good. The plot carries itself, and the supporting roles contribute most of the interest.
Laurence Paxton and Stephanie Smart return to their characters as the King and Queen. Paxton wrings plenty of comedy from the part of the bumbling monarch, while Smart is every inch the elegant matron. Both sing better than they have to, dance well and look richly regal.
Two-thirds of the low-comedy characters also return. Lisa Konove and Euphrosyne Rushforth are up to their old tricks as Stepmother and Stepsister, wincing, grimacing, and skulking around with exaggerated selfishness. Stacey Pulmano completes the trio as an over-the-top stepsister with a snorting laugh. "Stepsisters' Lament" becomes their theme song, and one of the best melodies in the show.
Other tunes have had only modest success. "In My Own Little Corner" is Cinderella's theme; "Do I Love You Because You're Beautiful?" goes to the Prince. Together they share the pretty waltz, "Ten Minutes Ago."
Visually, the production is delicious, with peach and pumpkin parfait gowns in the ball scene, and wonderful costumes and sets.
