If Theatre Under the Stars isn’t yet one of your family’s summer traditions, it really should be.
It just doesn’t get any better than snuggling under a blanket at Malkin Bowl in Stanley Park, watching a musical as the sun sets and the stars begin to shine above. Especially when that musical is Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, and you’re just feeling the magic.
Having had the fun of taking along my newly-turned-six-year-old last week, I can recommend it as a worthwhile family outing that got said six-year-old dancing and humming along, even well past her bedtime.
Mallory James and Tré Cotten are charmingly paired as Cinderella and Prince Topher, as both bring a natural stage presence and strong vocal performances to the stage.
They’re surrounded by a heap of talent on all sides – including the New Westminster performers who play a big part in this year’s productions at TUTS. New West performers play two key roles in the cast of Cinderella – Caleb Lagayan as Lord Pinkleton, wowing the crowds with his full and glorious voice; and Amanda Lourenco, providing loveable comic relief (with some great pipes and some great comedic timing) as the stepsister Charlotte.
Local performers Scotia Browner and Erin Spence also appear in the ensemble.
Some key leadership roles are also filled by New West folks: choreographer Nicol Spinola, music director Brent Hughes and costume designer Christina Sinosich.
Cinderella plays on odd-numbered days in July and even-numbered days in August, until it closes Aug. 18. It’s alternating with 42nd Street – which also features local talent in the person of Paige Fraser in the lead role of Peggy Sawyer, Blake Sartin as Billy Lawlor, Jolene Bernardino as Ann Reilly and Tyler Felbel as Abner Dillon. (I can’t give you any personal insight into this one, since I’ve yet to see it, but be sure to let me know what you think if you go.)
Tickets range from $30 to $49, and shows run on alternate evenings until Aug. Check out www.tuts.ca for schedules and tickets.
(Pro tip: If you take a small person, buying seats alongside the edge of the front section will get you a clear view with no people in front, since the rows are staggered. Choose your own seats so you can snag the edge.)
Have you seen a TUTS production this summer? Share your thoughts - send Julie an email at [email protected].
