Mike Woody reviews Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella-at La Comedia Dinner Theatre now through August 6
Mike Woody reviews 'Cinderella' at La Comedia
The Reds won 12 games in a row, a new Indiana Jones movie is out in 2023, and lasagna is on the buffet at La Comedia. A lot of seemingly impossible things are coming true, which is a theme in Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella. The classic musical is live on stage for a superb production at La Comedia. Anyone who dreams of seeing a show with lavish costumes, exquisite voices, and captivating performances; can turn their dreams into reality by attending Cinderella.
The character of Cinderella must work really hard, due to the orders given by her stepmother and step-sisters. However, it seems effortless for Emmie Wright to provide her with a beautiful voice and the glow of a Princess. The role is a perfect fit for Wright.
Prince Christopher is played by Gunnar Shoemake. His voice is equally as charming as his smile. Only in a fairytale would such drastic measures need to be taken to find him a mate.
The starlet of La Comedia, Karie - Lee Sutherland brings perfection to each of her many roles, but perhaps she’s never been better than as the Fairy Godmother. With or without a wand, she’s magical. Our six year old daughter has a phobia of getting her picture with or even meeting any type of character. She hasn’t gone to Dragons games because Heater might be in the vicinity. However, she was so enamored by the Fairy Godmother’s performance she got a picture with her.
Every story needs a villain, and Linda Dew and her daughters don’t miss a step on their path of being wicked. The orders they bark at Cinderella were enough to leave me exhausted, or maybe it was all the sweet potato soufflé I ate. The sisters; Joy (Taylor Nelson) & Portia (Farrah Rawlings) are entertaining in their repulsiveness. Special mention, they all three were impressive at being frozen during a scene at the ball where everyone stood in place.
From his work as a host, meat carver, and on stage; Mark Reuter has earned the title, the King of La Comedia. It’s fitting then that he wears the crown as the King. Reuter has long been a familiar face to La Comedia audiences, but for the second straight show, he’s really turned it up a notch. At this rate, by next year he’ll be announcing the birthdays and anniversaries.
Reuter’s counterpart, Amber Browning as the Queen is equally devine. Her voice and everything else are royally good. Though she looks at home, it’s her La Comedia debut, but hopefully will be seeing her on the stage again soon.
Another standout was Jonathan Pendergrass, whose shine as Herald was reminiscent of Lumiere. Pendergrass has an aura that demands attention. While the part is relatively small, he makes a big impression with it. If Pendergrass ever finds himself in need of another job, he proves himself capable of being a shoe salesman.
Is Cinderella enjoyable because it’s such a wonderful show, or is it such a wonderful show because it’s so enjoyable? My apologies for asking such a deep question. The simple answer is, to not be thoroughly entertained by Cinderella is…impossible.
Show information: Cinderalla at La Comedia
