November 23, 2004 > Cinderella

by Venkat Raman

The Irvington Conservatory Theatre opened their latest production, Cinderella, on November 19. This is the only musical written by Rodgers and Hammerstein for theatrical production. The run of this show straddles the Thanksgiving weekend with concluding weekend performances on December 3, 4, and 5.

This is a typical musical with a large cast and Irvington High School students make up most of it. A few charming young actors from junior high school and elementary school are included as well. Director Linda Jackson-Whitmore does a nice job with the production.

The story line pretty much follows the traditional story of Cinderella. Though she does invoke magic to aid Cinderella, the fairy godmother's advice to her can easily apply to anyone in a similar circumstance.

The vocal strengths of Vanessa Simmons as Cinderella and Jonathon Canada as the Prince are readily felt. They perform as good anchors for the show as their characters required. Erica Sanborn does a great job as the Queen. Her costumes are arguably the best fitting and appropriate. Tawny Schrodetzky is a good Godmother; the Godmother Trio of Mindy Lindsay, Sarah McGaffey, and Jaclyn Sewell also perform well. Kimberley Harrison as Portia does a good job. Stephanie Walker as Stepmother and Kristen Osegueda as Joy along with Kimberley effectively portray yokels. The dancers do a commendable job during various numbers.

The Valhalla Theatre at Irvington High School is a comfortable venue for viewing such drama. The technical aspects of the play are very good, with great lighting and sound. The set is made very well; set changes were elaborate yet swift.

This is certainly a high school production. Opening night was punctuated by the enthusiasm of parents and family. The long and hard work of the cast deserves patronage from the community as well.

Cinderella plays one more weekend, on Dec. 3 and 4 at 7:30 p.m. and on Dec. 5 at 2 p.m. at Irvington High School, Vallhalla Theatre, 41800 Blacow Road, Fremont. Ticket prices are: $12 General/Reserved, $8 Student ASB, Senior Citizens, and Children under 12. For tickets and information, call (510) 687-6315.