Milwaukee Ballet presents CINDERELLA

By Mary Boyle

I think that there is no fairy tale more familiar to all than Cinderella.  The tale of a young woman who goes from servant to princess has been told in all genres across every culture since ancient times.  Through April 7th, the Milwaukee Ballet presents their take on this classic story, and it's every bit as funny, magical, and family-friendly as the Disney version we will all compare it to.

Directed by Michael Pink, this production is the funniest ballet I've yet to see by Milwaukee Ballet, even compared to The Nutcracker and Peter Pan, and this is entirely because of the stepsisters, who are performed by two male dancers in drag.  I saw Garett Glassman and Eric Figueredo as Prunella and Lucretia, respectively, and they simply stole the show.  Before the ball, the stepsisters are given a dancing lesson where the dancing master (Parker Brasser-Vos) and the Violinist (Alexander Koulos) add brilliantly to the comedic delight.  Yet, while there is plenty of humor to entertain audience members of all ages, there is also plenty of beauty, romance, and magic to enchant.

Lahna Vanderbush was a lovely and graceful Cinderella, regardless of whether she was in rags or finery, and Randy Crespo was a regal Prince.  Marize Fumero made a fierce and intimidating stepmother who didn’t need any special powers to keep Cinderella’s weak father, performed by Davit Hovhannisyan, in check.  While the spirit of Cinderella’s mother watched over her and transformed a pumpkin and mice into a carriage and horses, Cinderella was also helped by Jack, a serving boy, performed by the always delightful and energetic Barry Molina.  The bright and colorful costumes on the Spirits of the Enchanted Garden and Courtiers by Peter Cazalet were like a spring bouquet of flowers, while the whimsical scenic design by Bruce Brockman placed the story firmly in the land of fairytales.

While this version of Cinderella is very family-friendly, parents should know that it is long, though there are two intermissions to allow for set and costume changes, which helps to give time to get the wiggles out.  That being said, this is an all-ages show that can be both a fun family outing, a romantic date activity, or a fun introduction to classical ballet.

CINDERELLA with the Milwaukee Ballet runs April 4-7 at the Marcus Performing Arts Center, located at 929 North Water Street in downtown Milwaukee.  Tickets may be purchased online at www.MilwaukeeBallet.org or by calling 414-902-2103. 
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About Milwaukee Ballet
Milwaukee Ballet is a Company of international artists, supported by a talented team of professionals and artisans. Our School & Academy attracts students from around the country to train under celebrated dancers, choreographers, and faculty. Our commitment to our craft is equal to our commitment to the community we serve.  Learn more at www.MilwaukeeBallet.org.