Review: 'Cinderella' Another Fine Production from The Community Players

The Community Players' production of the classic musical "Cinderella" is a dazzling triumph.

This version of the fairy tale has more complexity and depth than you would expect. The story depicts a range of characters discovering their own identities and being true to who they are. The underlying theme is never giving up on yourself even if the world seems to be against you. Surely, many in the LGBTQ+ community will be able to relate.

Clad in modest clothing, Cinderella, known simply as Ella, exists only to obey the demands of her evil stepmother (Meghan Smith) and two stepsisters Charlotte (Grace Gerard) and Gabrielle (Trey DiGioia). It is an unfulfilling life. Forced to do menial labor, Ella is given encouragement and some glamorous gowns by a fairy godmother.

Meanwhile, the handsome Prince Topher (Patrick Koshewa) is throwing a lavish ball in a quest to find a woman to marry. All the eligible single women are invited.

Sparks fly when the Prince and Cinderella share a dance. This elaborate sequence has been staged and choreographed brilliantly by Zoe Gillis. When the clock strikes midnight, Cinderella flees, leaving a glass slipper behind.

How will the Prince find this mystery woman?

Director Rachel Terceira, working from a book by Douglas Carter Beane ("Sister Act"), generates strong work from the large ensemble.

Brenna Griswold is likable and charming in the lead role. Ella would never be mistaken for a feminist, but she shows some social consciousness by advocating for the plight of the poor people being evicted from their lands. Rivera also looks regal in the gowns supplied by costume designer Teal Griswold.

Jean-Michel is a man leading a revolution against the Prince's heartless policies. Michael Mercado, Jr. shows an offbeat charm in the role as Jean-Michel wins the support of Ella and falls for Gabrielle.

Smith is amusing as the cold-hearted stepmother, the story's main villain, who confesses she married for money, not love. Thoroughly clueless, she wonders why she has no friends and lives a life of misery.

Sebastian (Mike Griswold) is the Prince's scheming advisor, who has cared for the young man since the death of his parents. He's a cold and heartless man who is shocked when Ella suggests people be kind to each other.

Gerard and DiGioia were a lot of fun to watch as Charlotte and Gabrielle scheme to win the Prince over and deal with the scheming of their mother. As Marie, Cinderella's fairy godmother, Larissa Laver brought the house down with a deeply moving vocal on "There's Music in You."

The Rodgers and Hammerstein songs were complimented by beautiful set designs (I especially loved the giant clock at the ball) and sharp choreography.

This is yet another example of The Community Players' commitment to high quality theater.

"Cinderella" runs through November 17. The Community Players. Running time: 2 hours with intermission. 350 Division St., Pawtucket, RI. For tickets, visit thecommunityplayers.org.