Welcome to the historic Plummer Auditorium. We are pleased that you are joining us here for what is sure to be an experience full of magic, wonder and surprise! This year's Main Stage Season has revolved around fairytales, and more significantly, how time is an important motif throughout the telling of these stories.
Cinderella is the only musical written by Richard Rodgers for television. It was originally broadcast live on CBS on March 31, 1957 as a vehicle for Julie Andrews, who played the title role. The production is adapted from the French version entitled, Cendrillon, ou la Petite, by Charles Perrault. The version of the show you will see is currently on a National Tour that was reprised by Douglas Carter Beane in 2013.
I have been talking about staging this show for the last four years. Two years ago Genni Klein invited me to see a Young Audiences' Program at the Ahmanson, sponsored by Center Theatre Group, of the touring company of Cinderella. I remember sitting in the box seats in a theatre full of elementary students, many of whom had never seen a live production. I could see their faces light up the moment the show began. They were captivated in a way that I believe only the arts can achieve. For a few short hours these students believed in the power of theatre and the power it has to transform imagination and create the "whole" person. I will never forget the reactions of these young people and I know they will never forget that production.
For me, this production of Cinderella comes at the right moment in time. It focuses on how we as humans see one another not only on the outside, but more importantly how we see what is on the inside of an individual, the unconditional power of kindness, and the gravity of treating one another with dignity and respect. It also stresses the importance of raising our voices for those who do not have one. Often we think of theatre solely as a form of entertainment, rather than a vehicle that can help the greater good. I challenge you to find a moment in the production that encourages you to seek a way to be a better member of your own family, and community. Enjoy the journey!
I would like to personally thank the following people for the energy and time they put into a FUHS production. Genni Klein for your passion and for being a wonderful creative partner, and friend. Beverly Shirk for working tirelessly driving, pulling costumes and being so adaptable without access to your Costume shop. Tony Gonzalez and Evan Shirk for all of your help making this a reality and for being so flexible. Zachary Hillman for your creativity, vision, and love for this incredible school. Scott Hedgecock, Anthony Lopez and Troy Trimble for all you do to collaborate and provide this experience to all of our students. Joefferry Wenderlich for your patience and your ability to make things happen. Samantha Brackman and Noah Martinez for your organization and forward thinking. David Renken for your love and support. Finally the entire Cinderella Company (Cast and Crew) for your ability to play and work at the same time!
Michael Despars
Artistic Director, FUHS Theatre Collaborative
Department Chair, Fullerton Union High School Academy of the Arts
2017 Site, District and Semi-Finalist for County Teacher of the Year
President-Elect, California Educational Theatre Association
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