There’s something magical that happens every single time we bring the kids to the theatre, and that’s the ability to experience it twice – once through your own eyes and once through their eyes.
And at Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, there was magic. From the opening scene, to the catchy music, there was magic throughout the show that captivated the kids (and us). As one of the first shows that we brought along our five-year-old to, I was a bit nervous – and loved the idea of introducing her to her first full show (where we didn’t leave after the first intermission) with a story that she was familiar with, with something she knew what to expect.
Did the show have the wow-factor? There was definite wow-factor. The part the kids were most anticipating through the show was the changing of Cinderella, and though we knew the storyline would be adjusted, a bit, I was very excited to see that there was not only one of those transformation moments, but two in the show, with incredible costumes in each. Each time the Fairy Godmother transformed Cinderella, there was an audible gasp from these two small people beside me, enthralled, that made me smile. To be honest, these were two of my favourite parts, too.
From the magical costume changes, to the impressive set design, and costumes of the ladies, and glitz of the Fairy Godmother, it’s a show that brings the magic of Cinderella to life, with the expected humor.
What about the scary/dark/loud parts? The opening scene where the Prince is capturing a large praying mantis is the scariest part of the entire show, and it’s not entirely that scary. The kids thought it was more humorous than anything. As for loud parts, there were very few parts that were too-loud. The Evil Stepmother was more funny-mean (versed in ridicule), than evil, adding to the kid-friendly nature of the show.
How was the Flow? The flow was fantastic, and the show was just the right length for bringing kids along, the late night was worth it. Sometimes, even as an adult, I find some shows can be too long, or drag on. The storyline and wow-factor of Cinderella had the kids captivated throughout the show, impressive.
One of my favourite aspects of the storyline were some of the teaching lessons that occurred, that were different from the traditional story – like themes of kindness, and friendship. The writing was very inclusive of truly being an all ages show.
The extras | As always, in the lobby, you’ll find the extras, the souvenirs to bring home. You’ll find things like Tiaras ($35!) and Posters ($20), Keychains ($10) and music from the show. We brought home a poster and a keychain, though the kids desperately wanted a Tiara. Our advice? Skip the tiara, grab a poster.
Splurge on the Shirley Temples, because if five, and you’re at the theatre dressed like fancy ladies, it totally warrants a $3 Shirley Temple.
Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella will be in Edmonton until April 23, 2017.