If you want your tickets to the Cinderella ball, buy them fast!

By CARRIE NEAL
A Seat on the Aisle

If you loved fairy tales as a small child, Cinderella is likely to be the first one you remember. The story of a hardworking and kind-hearted young woman, lifted from obscurity to become royalty, has always been a source of inspiration to those who long for more.

Little children and their families were out in full force to see this classic during opening weekend at Beef and Boards, and girls dressed in blue weren’t the only ones in costume; many parents were decked out as well, with light-up wands from the gift shop waving throughout the theater.

The traditional set design by Michael Layton sets the stage nicely. A functional yet fanciful castle is in view for almost the entire show, and its pillars light up with projections most effectively. Occasionally, the set revolves to show the interior of Cinderella’s home.

The Prince (Carmine Mastrokostas, right) places the glass slipper on the foot of Cinderella (Grace Ellis Solomon). (Photo by Rob Slaven / IndyGhostLight.com)

The talented cast has numerous standouts: first, Danny Kingston in the small yet pivotal role of the Herald. His interpretation is witty and precise, and he pops up all over the theater, much to the delight of the audience. As the bumbling King, Craig Underwood also makes the most of his limited time onstage, mining laughs from rather simplistic dialogue with great charm.

Cinderella’s stepsisters are always a highlight in any production of this classic piece of musical theater, and Christine Zavakos and Maya Mays do not disappoint in these great comedic roles. There’s not much cruelty here; they bicker with each other far more than they pick on Cinderella, roughhousing constantly. Ms. Zavakos in particular adds comedic bits to great effect. Additionally, Chanel Edwards-Frederick is a warm and grounded presence as the Fairy Godmother, with gorgeous vocals to boot. The special effects of her magic tricks are a treat to watch.

But, of course, the show really belongs to the title character, and this production is truly blessed in its leading lady. Newcomer Grace Ellis Solomon is absolutely enchanting as Cinderella, with an angelic voice, graceful form, and perpetual expression of delight. When she unites with her prince, played by Carmine Mastrokostas, they both make us believe in magic. Kudos to director Elizabeth Stark for finding moments of female empowerment for Cinderella within this fairly dated script.

This charming show has one final star, and it isn’t an actor – it’s the masterful costume design of Kathy Henry. A fairy tale such as Cinderella could easily have traditional costumes, but Henry delights in the unexpected: sequined pants under peekaboo ball gowns, shrunken bolero jackets, and sweeping capes attached to the back of men’s jackets. Her whimsical, fanciful vision greatly elevates the tone of the piece.

Clocking in at a brisk two hours including a 30-minute intermission, Cinderella is the perfect length for family-friendly entertainment. Tickets are apparently already scarce, so don’t delay if you want to be part of the magic! Tickets can be purchased online at beefandboards.com, or by calling their box office at (317) 873-9664. Cinderella runs at Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre through July 12.

Read more great play reviews from A Seat on the Aisle at asota.wordpress.com.