VIDEO: Making of 'Cinderella,' an Eastern opera

Take a behind-the-scenes look at the Music Department’s latest opera production, "Cinderella," showing Nov. 14 and 16 in the Fine Arts Instructional Center Concert Hall. Meet the cast and crew behind this modern take on Pauline Viardot’s "Cendrillon" and see how they bring new life to a classic fairytale.

This whimsical 60-minute production features a new English adaptation by Professor Emily Riggs and musical direction by Professor David Ballena, bringing to life Viardot's witty and tuneful take on the timeless story. Follow Cinderella as she outsmarts her stepfamily, encounters her fairy godmother, and wins the heart of Prince Charming - all set to Viardot's delightful and lyrical score.

Riggs explained that opera’s small cast with piano accompaniment makes it a wonderful choice for an undergraduate opera program, while the familiar story offers a prime introduction to opera for young audiences or first-time opera goers.

“At the same time, Viardot’s mature musical score and witty libretto offer something special for seasoned opera lovers and present an exciting challenge for young singers,” she wrote in her Director’s Notes. “This new English translation endeavors to retain Viardot’s distinctive humor and highlight her confident and spirited portrayal of the opera’s titular character, which brings fresh life to a timeless tale.”

For tickets, visit the box office website. 

Production Team

• Technical Directors — Jason Wadecki, Brendon Figueras
• Charge Scenic Artist — Allison Sawtelle
• Scenic Designer — Professor Emily Riggs
• Costume Designer — Professor Emily Riggs
• Lighting Designer — Sam Oravits
• Voice & Opera Assistant — Taegan Botti

Cast

• Cinderella — Taegan Botti
• Prince Charming — Alexandra Lavelle, Samantha Mallory
• Armelinda — Allison Thebeau, Heather Tusch
• Maguelonne — Rachael Hutchinson
• The Baron Pictordu — Eduardo Sampaio
• Fairy Godmother — Patricia J. White
• Count Barigoule — Dante Adams

Ensemble

• Sopranos — Temi Bradlee, Madelyn Freeman, Kiyah Grady
• Altos — Jocelyn Kirwan, Jordyn Szretter, Heather Tusch, Samantha Mallory
• Baritones — Noah Klein, Jaeden Prochorchik

Instrumentalists

• Piano — Professor David Ballena
• Percussion — Aria DeGrazio