Encore Musicals is bringing a classic fairy tale to the stage over the next two weekends, presenting “Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella” at the RiverPark Center. Ava Wiggins, who plays the lead role of Ella, said this version includes all of the typical elements but expands on them in a fun and entertaining way.
The Rodgers and Hammerstein musical version of Cinderella went through many variations since it was written — with Julie Andrews, Leslie Ann Warren, and Brandy among the women playing lead roles — before eventually becoming the Broadway musical version that Encore is presenting.
Wiggins said the audience will get to know each character personally.
“The musical score in this version is drop-dead gorgeous, including all of the iconic songs people will know from the previous variations like ‘Ten Minutes Ago’ and ‘In My Own Little Corner,'” Wiggins said. “This show is for everyone who loves a good fairytale — kids, teens, adults, and families of all kinds. It has action, romance, comedy, drama, dancing, magic, and more.”
From the moment the cast list was posted, Wiggins said she could not contain her excitement. This show and role had been on her bucket list for a while.
“Being able to do it alongside this cast is better than anything I could’ve ever imagined,” she said. “These past 2 months, I’ve really been working with absolute titans in Owensboro theatre, and they’re not only incredibly talented at what they do, but they’re also the kindest and most supportive group of people you will ever meet.”
Wiggins said she thinks the show, cast, and crew are nothing short of incredible.
“There is no doubt they will blow you away,” Wiggins said.
Performances will be at 7 p.m. each of the next two Saturdays and 2 p.m. each of the next two Sundays. Tickets are available for purchase at Ticketmaster and through the RiverPark Center.
There will also be a sensory-friendly performance at 6 p.m. on July 25 for children and adults who have heightened sensory-sensitivity. More information about that performance can be found at encoreowensboro.com/sensory-friendly-performance.
