The reviews are in: Cinderella left the audience enchanted.
Cinderella, the Trinidad and Tobago Musical completed its run at Sapa last week to rave reviews. Now, the new local take on the classic fairytale moves to Queen’s Hall for a run of shows from September 24-29.
The show is a production of Baggasse Company, their first stage presentation in seven years.
Baggasse executive producer and artistic director Christine Johnston says the show was very warmly received at Sapa: “We got a tremendous response. Everyone absolutely loved it.”
The new musical has an original script, written by Johnston. The story interweaves elements of T&T culture, including folklore, Carnival characters like Moko Jumbies, Devils and Minstrels, calypso, chutney, pan and local patois. Cinderella’s enchanted coach takes the form of a carnival queen costume, designed by co-director Aaron Schneider.
Fashion designer and editor-in-chief of Caribbean Fashion Style Journal Darcel M de Vlugt shared her thoughts on the show and the performances of the cast:
“I found it highly entertaining and definitely a step in the right direction as far as musicals go locally. It was so nice to get a Broadway feel with the perfect balance of patois and local culture, without it being rammed down my throat.”
“Tishanna Williams commanded the stage with her presence… Aurora Tardieu was on point across the board as Priscilla. She was totally committed to the role and very enjoyable to watch. Kevin Humphrey was thoroughly entertaining as Lionel. Stephen Hadeed Jr sang and nailed it. I loved what Kyle Richardson in the role of Whiskers brought to the table.
“The three wicked stepsisters had great onstage presence and (fed) off one another for lines and reactions. Good energy between these ladies.”
Lawrence Arjoon did not hold back his praise after seeing the show:
“Revolutionary! That’s the best description for the distinctive excellence of Cinderella the T&T Musical… this production has raised the bar for local adaptations.”
He praised Anne Lavine in the role of evil stepmother Priscilla: “She was the best villain I have ever seen on a Trinbagonian stage. Her performance was the essence of magnificence.
• Cinderella, the Trinidad and Tobago Musical continues at Queen’s Hall from September 24 – 29 (School Shows 10 am September 25, 28 & 29)