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Lee Ann Waterman, New Hamburg Independent
May 15, 2001
The Community Players have made magic again with their production
of Rodger's and Hammerstein's Cinderella, staged last week at
the New Hamburg Arena.
It's always amazing to see how this group can bring together lights,
costumes, props, words, movement, song and dance to transform
the arena into a theatre and local children and adults into performers.
The play was a bit of a departure for the group, whose signature
style is a rousing, feel-good musical with lots of people and
lots of action. But, they pulled it off. In a love story, it's
often the chemistry between the two leads that makes the show.
And I have to admit that Cinderella (played by Kelly Morriss)
and her prince Prince (played by Lance Green) make a fairytale
perfect pair, she is young, sweet and graceful, with the voice
of an angel and he is a strong actor and dashingly handsome.
But in this production, there are so many good character roles
for local actors to sink their teeth into and they often steel
the show. From the moment the stepsisters and stepmother hit the
stage, the audience knows these ladies (and I use the term loosely)
are a force to be reckoned with. Outlandish costumes, outrageous
mannerisms and over-the-top makeup combine with some really great
songs and excellent comedic timing to make this quartet (of Tammy
Smerchinski, Michelle DiTomasso, Cheryl Brubacher-Cressman and
Dave Gingerich) a highlight of the production.
The King (played by Stewart Robertson) also shines, albeit in
a less obvious way. His subtle delivery of lines and excellent
singing voice made him the perfect choice for this role.
This production was not without its challenges; the play called
for some sophisticated props and some Fairy Godmother magic -
to turn mice into horses, light a spark in the fireplace, etc.
As usual the people behind the props are to be commended for bringing
together their combined creativity, talent and elbow grease to
create some wonderful sets and a truly lovely
pumpkin-shaped carriage.
The placement of the orchestra behind the stage was a nice touch
- and served to bring the musicians into the show, especially
in the ballroom dance numbers. Finally, knowing the tradition
of music in our community, I almost take for granted that the
voices and accompaniment will be wonderful - and they were.
All in all, a great production - cast and crew, and indeed the
whole community, have much to be proud of.
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