The Youth Performing Arts School is known for their impressive productions with elaborate set designs and immense levels of talent. They recently took on Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella which follows the story of Cinderella: a poor and mistreated commoner, and Prince Topher: a dorky prince searching for his identity. The show followed themes of hope, kindness and perseverance. It also featured an unexpected theme of social activism represented in the character Jean Michel (played by both Aiden Brooks and Ayden Gibson) who is a revolutionist fighting for equality and justice throughout the kingdom.
I had the pleasure of experiencing both the “Cinder” cast (starring Bailey Evans as Cinderella) and “Ella” cast (starring Ava Stocker). To say my expectations were met would be an understatement. The set, as promised, was incredibly elaborate, featuring a life sized movable horse completely made by the school’s design and production magnet, who also designed and made an array of lovely costumes which helped to convey both the story and the time period. Speaking of costumes, the show featured a total of three on stage costume changes that were, for the most part, seamless and stunning. I applaud the technician department on all of their hard work they spent on this production. Another magical element that helped make this production go above and beyond was the live, student-run, orchestrations. The entire score was played by an array of YPAS students; I felt that this element provided a natural yet professional quality that elevated all of the music to another level.
A performer that stood out was Leilani Bracey who played Charlotte, an evil and unjust step-sister who mistreats Cinderella. Her dramatic facial expressions created an excessive level of comedy that had the majority of the audience laughing from her entrance to her final bow. But she’s much more than just a skillful actor as shown by her song in the beginning of the second act: “Stepsisters Lament.” Her voice was powerful yet controlled, and she didn’t shy away from making vocal and comedic choices that fit her character perfectly. Her double cast member, Channing Rivera, sang Charlotte’s song effortlessly, yet found a way to create an individuality while staying true to her character. Both of the Cinderellas’ performances were incredible; Ava Stocker’s vocals were truly mesmerizing, leaving everyone in awe of her princess-like voice, representing the picture perfect Cinderella, while Bailey Evans created an emotional yet fiery Cinderella with a strong sense of originality.
Both of the Prince Tophers shared goofy and charismatic qualities without playing too much into the stereotypical “prince charming.” Another performer that stood out was Kate Doran, who played Gabrielle: a compassionate and caring step sister to Cinderella. She played her character with a giddy energy that helped to contrast Charlotte’s rude and abrupt personality. Her secret relationship with Jean Michel created an unexpected yet welcomed couple and both casts’ pairings had a great amount of romantic chemistry. Lastly, both Olivia Haddox and Gillian Dickinson played Marie beautifully, their voices effortlessly hit every sky-high note thrown their way. Although they played the same character, Gillian was more motherly and homey while Olivia was more charismatic and charming.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this production and would see it again if given the opportunity!
(Photo credit: Jack Masterson from the YPAS Facebook page)
