Clearview Regional High School’s fall play, “Cinderella,” is a story that almost everyone knows. But leave it to the school’s ambitious musical department to add a twist to this already classic story.
With a new take on the fantasy classic, audience members will witness a familiar story of princes, ballrooms and fairy godmothers, but with a deeper exploration of Cinderella’s background.
According to director Paul Sommers, the group believed that its cast and crew had enough acting and singing talent to pull off the adaptation, which follows a script geared toward a younger audience.
Narrated by a silly rat named Putterman, the show includes much of the classic storyline, but with added elements meant to enhance interaction with younger theatre-goers.
During different scenes in the show, cast members will break what is called “the fourth wall,” which is the imagined wall that separates actors from the audience. The audience will be able to directly interact and talk with the cast during the show.
“That’s probably the most interesting part of the script and that’s why we chose it,” said Sommers.
The play will take place on Thursday, Nov. 21, through Sunday, Nov. 23. Tickets are $14 for general admission, $7 for staff and family members and $10 for children. Tickets are free for those who want to volunteer for one of the shows. Additionally, the department will have a “Royal Tea” for ages 3-10 that will take place on Saturday, Nov. 16 at 10 a.m., featuring a meet-and-greet with the cast, a preview of the show, snacks and crafts.
“The show focuses more on Cinderella’s aspirations as a person rather than her just falling for a guy,” junior Devon DiVerniero, who is playing Cinderella, said.
Since the show is double cast, DiVerniero will play Cinderella on opening and closing night, while senior Hope Miller plays Cinderella on Friday and in the Saturday matinee.
Audience members will meet different characters, hear new songs and follow new motives of classic characters in the show.
“It’s not just the original. There’re so many more layers to the show,” Miller said.
Tickets can be bought online at https://fallplay.ticketleap.com/cinderella/. Tickets for the Royal Tea can be bought online at https://fallplay.ticketleap.com/royal-tea/.
Clearview Regional High School’s Toscano Theater is located at 625 Breakneck Rd.
