Rogers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella - Youth Edition

Murray Music and Drama Club’s atmosphere is always welcoming and warm, and seated at tables, one might almost be at the Royal Ball, or the wedding of Cinderella and her Prince.

Presented for a very short season, Rogers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella - Youth Edition was presented by MMDC’s younger members, and was directed by Lori Anders, a late change when Rp van Der Westhuizen’s professional engagement was extended. Lori has directed with passion and creativity; the developing voices have been nurtured well by Vocal Director Christie McGarrity and Christina Treg has provided creative choreography that catered well to varying abilities and was nicely executed.

A simple but effective set by Trevor Delaporte, supported young actors to shine and they were dressed beautifully and with a sense of fun by costume coordinator Grace Crawford and team.

Leading a cast of 30 was Maisy Grierson as Cinderella, playing her first lead role with grace, sincerity and depth, singing a difficult part well. She was nicely matched with Xavier McGuire as Prince Christopher, a performer with great potential that I would like to see stand to his full height - I loved his sincerity.

Aging up nicely, Josie Fahl brought maturity and a lovely mean streak to Cinderella’s Stepmother, while Annabelle Berry and Darien Peckover created a tangible relationship and brought dignity to the roles of the Queen and King.

Cinderella’s stepsisters are not ugly, but they are unkind. Matilda Harris created a rather joyless Joy, while Stephanie Fahl, in her biggest role to date, as Portia, created a striking signature snort laugh. Tyler Larado was a sweet and sassy Fairy Godmother, while 11-year-old Dean Walker was impressive in his biggest role yet, a hardworking and confident Herald.

The ensemble worked hard throughout, delivering solo lines with energy and character and adding atmosphere and sparkle. Lovely to see so many head-mikes - and the sound balance was excellent.

A feel-good show with more than a little bit of magic.

Kimberley Shaw