My kids (ages 10 and 12) and I made the trip Friday night to go see Northwest Children’s Theater’s newest production, Cinderella, running through May 21. We have been frequent patrons since my youngest was three years old, and we were so excited to see a show by a company that has provided so many amazing memories from their childhoods, now in their brand new space The Judy!
For this show, NWCT’s Catalyst program, an intensive theater training program for teens, puts their own spin on the classic Cinderella tale. The core elements are all there, but with modern and humorous twists. Prince Bobby is endearingly awkward, and is much more interested in finding a dance partner to help him achieve his dream of performing on stage than in finding a wife. When his parents decide to host a ball to help him meet young ladies, he asks guests to bring thirty-two bars of music and a prepared dance number to the audition — I mean party.
Cinderella has a confident and independent streak that made us all smile, giving a bit of well deserved sass to her step-mother and step-sisters. And when she found out she was to wed Bobby (he forgot to mention it in his excitement about preparing for their show), she promptly said no. After all, they’d only known each other for a month and a love of show tunes is not a proper foundation for a marriage. Spoiler alert: there’s no need to worry — they find true love in the end!
Some of our favorite moments came from the levity provided by the supporting characters. The step-sisters in particular gave the audience many laughs as they sang underhanded insults to each other as they prepared for the ball. The non-traditional fairy godmother was also a hit.
The show was held in the new black box theater, a more intimate space than young audience members may be used to. The small stage is not raised and seating approaches the edge of the stage, meaning you are quite close to performers. Kids who may feel intimidated by such close proximity may feel more comfortable in the back, and there’s not a bad seat in the house.
Overall, this show was entertaining and engaging, providing the audience with many laugh out loud moments. As my daughter said, “It’s funny and great for all ages. It’s like the regular Cinderella but better.” My son’s take? “It’s a funny show that’s good for kids without being for babies.”
You can purchase tickets to this wonderful show here!
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