The Prince is a handsome prince, but with a modern, close-cropped haircut and a Russell Crowe bearing. The wicked stepmother, icily lovely in her brocade gowns, has a deep, growly voice. And Cinderella, for once, doesn't take her punishment with a smile. She tells that nasty stepmother off - and even pushes her stepsisters in the canal. The sky is a deep twilight blue, the square ringed with lanterns.
Footbridges cross a canal, and rooftops appear in the background.
The ghosts of Rodgers and Hammerstein loom large. But this production, by the New York State Theatre Institute, was a happy surprise. The costumes are gorgeous, the cast is terrific and the dancing is good. Most importantly, the music, by Will Severin and George David Weiss, is upbeat and memorable. A day after seeing the show, I can actually remember a few songs.