Act I, Scene 1
In a faraway kingdom, a kind-hearted young girl named Cinderella lives under the shadow of sorrow. After her mother’s passing, her father remarries a cold and domineering woman, bringing two selfish stepsisters into Cinderella’s life. Though her father loves her, he fears his new wife and is powerless to protect Cinderella from daily cruelty.
As the morning unfolds with the usual chaos and petty quarrels, Cinderella quietly endures. The stepsisters bicker endlessly, showing off and belittling her, while the Stepmother keeps Cinderella in her place. Alone and wistful, Cinderella thinks of her godmother, a magical figure who always seems to appear just when she needs her most.
Suddenly, time stands still. The Fairy Godmother materializes, bringing with her invitations to a grand ball at the palace. The household is abuzz as the Stepsisters prepare, unaware that Cinderella has also been invited. However, without a gown to wear, she resigns herself to staying home.
The Stepsisters’ squabbling continues as they try on dresses and struggle through dance lessons, provided by the Dance Tutor. Meanwhile, Cinderella moves gracefully, mastering every step, which only fuels their jealousy and angers Cinderella’s Stepmother.
Just then, the room fills with enchantment. Sparkling helpers emerge – the Fairy magic is at work!
Act I, Scene 2
The Fairy Godmother whisks Cinderella away to a spellbinding garden where magic reigns. There, fairies transform her tattered clothes into a dazzling gown adorned with gold and jewels. Mice become noble horses, and a pumpkin turns into an elegant carriage. Finally, the Fairy Godmother gifts her the ultimate treasure – delicate crystal slippers.
Before she departs, Cinderella receives a warning: she must return home before midnight, or the magic will vanish, leaving her in rags once again.
INTERMISSION
Act II, Scene 1
At the palace, guests gather for the magnificent ball. The King and Queen greet the noble assembly, which includes the Stepmother and Stepsisters. The Prince, beloved and lighthearted, entertains the crowd but remains unmoved by the many eligible maidens.
Everything changes when Cinderella arrives. Radiant in her enchanted gown, her grace and kindness captivate all, especially the Prince, who falls in love at first sight. He offers her a special gift of exotic oranges, though the Stepsisters quickly steal them away.
As the night progresses, the clock strikes midnight. The Fairy Godmother reappears, reminding Cinderella of the hour. In haste, she flees the palace, losing one of her crystal slippers on the grand staircase. The Prince, now desperately in love, clutches the slipper and vows to find her.
Act II, Scene 2
Determined to reunite with the mysterious girl, the Prince searches the kingdom, asking every maiden to try on the lost slipper. Yet no foot fits its delicate shape. The King and Queen, eager to help, support their son as he continues his quest, refusing to give up hope.
Act II, Scene 3
Back at home, Cinderella clings to the memory of the ball, quietly cherishing her remaining crystal slipper. Her stepsisters, unaware of her secret, boast about their night and parade the oranges they slyly acquired.
Suddenly, the Prince arrives at their door. The Stepsisters and Stepmother scramble to fit the slipper, going to absurd lengths to force it on. Amid the commotion, Cinderella accidentally reveals her matching slipper. Recognizing his true love at last, the Prince joyfully reunites with Cinderella. The spell is broken, love triumphs and their happily ever after begins.
Duration:
2 hours (including 20-minute intermission)
Location:
The Strand Theatre,
619 Louisiana Ave, Shreveport, LA 71101
Audience:
For ages 2 & over
