Whidbey Island Dance Theatre will open its production of “Cinderella” on Friday, May 6 at South Whidbey High School.
“Cinderella” is one of the world’s best loved ballets, produced around the globe since it’s debut May 8, 1815 in Saint Petersburg, Russia. With haunting music by Serge Prokofiev, “Cinderella” provides classical culture and a spirit of humor for the whole family.
Charlene Brown and Susan Campbell Sandri, co-artistic directors of the dance theatre, have long been wishing for the chance to present another story ballet for island audiences and dancers.
“We wanted a storybook ballet because we hope it will excite children and families to come and enjoy dance,” she added. “We chose ‘Cinderella’ because we have existing costumes and sets that well-suit several characters and scenes, which has kept initial production costs down and made it possible to do this!”
In major roles are Amy Arand as Cinderella, Avery Grant and Sayaka Yokota as the hilarious step-sisters, Christine Monaghan as the wicked stepmother, Madyson Hunter as the fairy godmother, and Elliauna Madsen as the gypsy. Lars Larson dances the role of Prince Charming, with Caelan Wisont as his faithful and comedic page.
Sixty additional characters bring the story to life, with dancers from WIDT’s Preparatory Company and community auditions.
“Our version will be kid-friendly — short, funny and with a nod to the Disney animated version, which is the story variation that many children (and grown-ups) expect,” Sandri said.
With an experienced and talented design team, this ballet is bound to be a wonder-filled treasure for audiences both young and old. All new choreography is being built by directors Sandri and Brown, and by Leigh-Ann Cohen-Hafford, Jamee Pitts and Susan Vanderwood.
Whidbey Island Dance Theatre’s will present three performances of “Cinderella” at 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 6, and 1 and 6 p.m. Sunday, May 8 in the auditorium at South Whidbey High School.
Tickets are $18 for adults, $16 for seniors and $10 for children and youths age 17 and younger. Opening night pre-sale special is $15 for all adults.
At the door, adults are $20, children and youths are $15. Group discounts are available.
For tickets and more information, call 341-2221 or visit widtonline.org.
