SWAN Hill Theatre Group members are ready to take to the stage for their biggest production of the year, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, opening tonight.
The popular fable follows the young, kind-hearted Cinderella played by Tarni Smith who is treated poorly by Karissa Box in her role as the nasty stepmother, and evil stepsisters portrayed by Emily and Ashleigh Smith.
With the help of her Fairy Godmother Marie played by Carmen Baulch, Cinderella transforms into a beautiful princess and wins the heart of Prince Topher also known as Harley Lahy.
The production is being directed by Swan Hill local John Murray, who also directed last year’s hit musical Annie.
“This is the Rodgers and Hammerstein version, which is a bit of a twist on the Disney one,” he said.
“The reason I picked this show is because it’s a good show for the cast we have to shine.
“The show is for all ages. It’s a classic story and this version is still very friendly, so everyone can come and see it.
“If you know the Cinderella story, you’ll know the basic beats, but you’ll just get a slightly different ending.”
Audience members should look out for real life sisters Ashleigh and Emily Smith, playing the onstage evil stepsisters.
“Being able to work with my sister has been a highlight because we haven’t done that in a very long time,” said Ashleigh.
“Working with close friends who are all very theatre orientated has been one of my favourite parts.”
Swan Hill Theatre Group relies entirely on volunteers, from the cast, band, directorial team, backstage crew, lights, costumes and more.
Murray said there is an amazing sense of community within the theatre.
“You just ask for help and you get a lot of it,” he said.
Leading lady Tarni Smith who plays Cinderella, encourages people to come and enjoy the beautiful sets, costumes, and range of talent within the production.
Harley said his lead role debut experience was a “blessing.”
“I literally woke up on a Sunday, I saw the advertisement on Facebook, and I said to myself, why not? It’s been an amazing experience,” he said.
Cinderella’s director described the production as a “step up” from previous productions he has led and encouraged audience members to look out for talented dancers, strong vocals, the hand painted sets and an overall amazing, family friendly show.
Tickets to Swan Hill Theatre Group’s production of Cinderella are available via trybooking.com/events/landing/1329743 with shows between now and June 28 starting at 7.30pm
There’s also matinees on Sunday, June 15 and 22, from 2pm.
Tickets range from $23 to $33.
