Guest review by Patricia Mazzola
Who isn’t ready for some enchanting, updated classic entertainment to begin the winter holiday season? Do not be misled by the premise of a child’s old-fashioned fairy tale as there is much more than that with something for all ages in Croswell Opera House’s magical musical production of Rogers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella, running now through December 7th. Get your tickets now before “it’s impossible”.
The enchantment begins a moment before the curtain opens and continues throughout with MAGICAL stagecraft, elaborate costumes, properties and sets, and a wonderful cast. Director Ron Baumanis has done it again. You must go and see this production for yourself as I will not ruin the many visual and audio goodies in this review. You’re welcome.
I will talk about this newer version of the classic written by Douglas Carter Beane which opened on Broadway in 2013, to which this production follows. In it you will be introduced to new characters and plot twists. In this kingdom, you will see class struggles, economic challenges, political differences and devotions, that are not suppressed for the sake of a childhood fable.Original characters are given more depth through witty humor and modern sensibilities of compassion: charity, generosity, and kindness. None of this is done in a sappy manner. You will be both amused and touched by this adaptation and how well this cast delivers each line and song.
Ally Szymanski and Jared Freeman, Ella and Topher, respectively, have wonderful chemistry to match their vocals. Lily Gechter, as Gabrielle, and Sara Long, as Charlotte, provide lots of heart and comedy as the stepsisters in a dysfunctional family led by matriarch Madame, played by very strong Kelly Frailly. Watch Ms. Long exquisitely carry off scene after scene as she makes you love to hate her and hate that you love her. Rounding out the featured cast is Angela Hench as a lovely voiced and very funny fairy godmother, Jonah Hiatt as Jean-Michel, Stephen Kiersay as Sebastian, and Joshua Egnatuk as Lord Pinkleton, all who have embraced their characters with abandon much to the audience’s delight. The ensemble fills the stage with lovely movement choreographed by Sarah Nowak. Of particular note are the three bumbling yet lovable loyalists (Austin Petrie, AJ Landingham, Walter Book).
Another treat is having a full orchestra in the pit; unseen but not unheard. Conductor Raymond Novak has summoned an ensemble that delivers a lush, daunting score with grace and precision.
Joining veteran director Ron Baumanis, there is masterful choreography by Sarah Nowak, great vocal direction by Kristin Clark, beautiful Costumes by Pam Krage, lovely Set Design by Beth Flumignan, bright and colorful Lighting Design by Rachel Slupe, slick Projections by Crosby Slupe, outstanding Sound Design by Karl Kasischke, period Wigs and hair Design by Love Ruddell, and tightly integrated Intimacy and Fight direction by Jen Pan.
What a local gem to have in the Croswell Opera House that does not shy away from productions of grand proportions and delivers professionally. This production is highly recommended!
Highest Recommendation.
Mostly Musical Theatre 
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