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Synopsis of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella

Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella is a magical, heartfelt reimagining of the classic fairytale. Originally created for television in 1957, this timeless musical was brought to Broadway for the first time in 2013 with an updated book by Douglas Carter Beane. The Broadway adaptation retains the charm and iconic songs of the original while incorporating new characters, subplots, and empowering themes. The story follows Ella, a kind and resourceful young woman forced to serve as a maid in her own home under the cruel hand of her stepmother, Madame, and her self-absorbed stepsister, Charlotte. Her other stepsister, Gabrielle, is kind-hearted but afraid to stand up to Madame. Despite her circumstances, Ella remains hopeful and dreams of a better life. When Prince Topher, a young and idealistic royal, announces a grand ball to find his future queen, Ella is determined to attend. With the help of her fairy godmother, Marie, Ella transforms into a vision of beauty and captures the heart of the prince. But this is more than just a love story. Ella inspires Prince Topher to challenge the injustices in his kingdom, bringing kindness and fairness to his people. Filled with enchanting music, dazzling transformations, and a modern twist on a beloved story, Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella is a tale of courage, compassion, and the power of believing in yourself.

Character Profiles

Cinderella (Ella) The kind and optimistic heroine of the story. Despite being mistreated by her stepmother and stepsisters, Ella remains compassionate and dreams of a better life. In this adaptation, Ella is portrayed as strong and resourceful, taking an active role in shaping her destiny. Prince Topher The charming but uncertain prince who is searching for his place in the world. Topher is more than just a romantic lead—he seeks to be a fair and just ruler, inspired by Ella’s courage and vision for a kinder kingdom. Marie (The Fairy Godmother) Initially disguised as a poor beggar, Marie reveals her magical powers to Ella and becomes her mentor. She helps Ella attend the ball, transforming her rags into a stunning gown, and encourages her to believe in her own strength. Madame (The Stepmother) Ella’s cunning and ambitious stepmother who seeks to elevate her own daughters’ social standing at Ella’s expense. Madame’s manipulative ways contrast sharply with Ella’s kindness. Gabrielle The kinder of the two stepsisters, Gabrielle harbors her own dreams and eventually allies with Ella to stand up to their stepmother’s control. Charlotte The comically vain and self-absorbed stepsister, Charlotte provides much of the show’s humor with her over-the-top personality. Sebastian Prince Topher’s calculating and power-hungry advisor, Sebastian seeks to maintain control over the kingdom by keeping the prince in the dark. Jean-Michel A passionate revolutionary who seeks to bring fairness and equality to the kingdom. Jean-Michel’s ideals resonate with Ella and inspire Prince Topher to take action.

Historical Context of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella

Rodgers and Hammerstein originally wrote Cinderella as a made-for-television musical, which aired in 1957 starring Julie Andrews. The production was an instant success, watched by over 100 million people. Subsequent adaptations for television followed in 1965 and 1997, with the latter starring Brandy as Cinderella and Whitney Houston as the Fairy Godmother. Despite its popularity, Cinderella had never been produced on Broadway until 2013. This new version, directed by Mark Brokaw and featuring a revised book by Douglas Carter Beane, added depth and modern sensibilities to the classic story. Beane’s adaptation introduced themes of social justice, agency, and equality, making Ella more than just a damsel waiting for rescue. The production premiered at the Broadway Theatre on March 3, 2013, and ran for nearly two years, earning several Tony nominations and winning Best Costume Design for William Ivey Long’s stunning creations.

Themes and Motifs

Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella explores timeless themes of love, kindness, and empowerment while incorporating modern messages of social justice and self-determination. These themes resonate through the music, characters, and staging, creating a story that feels both classic and contemporary. Love and Kindness At the heart of the story is the transformative power of love and kindness. Ella’s compassion and belief in the goodness of others inspire Prince Topher to become a better leader and bring fairness to his kingdom. The show emphasizes that kindness is not a weakness but a strength that can create meaningful change. Self-Empowerment and Agency This adaptation portrays Ella as a proactive heroine who takes charge of her destiny. She doesn’t just dream of a better life—she seizes opportunities, stands up to injustice, and becomes a catalyst for change. Her relationship with Prince Topher is based on mutual respect and shared values rather than mere chance or appearances. Social Justice Douglas Carter Beane’s updated book introduces a subplot about inequality and fairness in the kingdom. Through characters like Jean-Michel, the musical explores the importance of advocating for those without a voice and challenging systems of power that perpetuate injustice. Magical Transformations The motif of transformation is central to the story, both literally and metaphorically. From Ella’s magical change into a princess to Prince Topher’s growth into a fair and just ruler, the musical shows that change is possible when driven by courage, kindness, and belief. Dreams and Hope Ella’s enduring hope in the face of adversity is a recurring motif, reminding audiences of the importance of holding onto dreams even when the odds seem insurmountable. Her optimism becomes a guiding light for others in the story.

Key Scenes Explained

Ella’s Transformation One of the most iconic moments of the musical is when Marie reveals her true identity as the Fairy Godmother and transforms Ella’s rags into a dazzling gown. The seamless stagecraft and William Ivey Long’s Tony-winning costume design make this scene a breathtaking highlight. The Ball and Dance with Prince Topher The grand ball is a visual and emotional centerpiece of the musical. As Ella and Topher dance together, their connection grows beyond a superficial attraction. The choreography and music convey their mutual respect and admiration. Ella Stands Up to Madame In a pivotal moment, Ella finds the courage to confront her stepmother. This scene underscores her transformation from a passive dreamer into a strong, empowered woman determined to fight for what’s right. The Glass Slipper Reveal The fitting of the glass slipper is not just a romantic moment but also a powerful symbol of Ella reclaiming her identity and place in the world. It’s a culmination of her journey and her love story with Prince Topher. Prince Topher Confronts Sebastian In this adaptation, Prince Topher grows into his role as a leader by challenging his advisor Sebastian’s control and corruption. Inspired by Ella and Jean-Michel, he takes a stand for justice, bringing balance and fairness to the kingdom.

Interpretations of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella

This Broadway adaptation balances tradition with innovation, blending the enchanting fairytale elements audiences love with empowering messages that resonate with modern sensibilities. The updated book by Douglas Carter Beane redefines Cinderella as a heroine of agency and strength, ensuring her story is about more than just romance. Her actions inspire those around her to grow, particularly Prince Topher, whose development into a fair and compassionate ruler adds depth to the traditional “happily ever after.” Visually, the production’s magical transformations and spectacular ballroom scenes elevate the sense of wonder, while the use of music, such as the iconic “Ten Minutes Ago” and the empowering “Do I Love You Because You’re Beautiful?”, deepens the emotional impact. By emphasizing kindness, hope, and justice, this adaptation ensures that Cinderella remains as relevant today as it was when it first debuted.

Cast and Creative Team of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella

Cast Highlights

• Cinderella (Ella): Laura Osnes
• Prince Topher: Santino Fontana
• Marie (Fairy Godmother): Victoria Clark
• Madame (Stepmother): Harriet Harris
• Gabrielle (Stepsister): Marla Mindelle
• Charlotte (Stepsister): Ann Harada
• Jean-Michel: Greg Hildreth
• Sebastian: Peter Bartlett

Creative Team

• Music: Richard Rodgers
• Lyrics: Oscar Hammerstein II
• Book: Douglas Carter Beane
• Director: Mark Brokaw
• Choreographer: Josh Rhodes
• Costume Design: William Ivey Long (Tony Award Winner)
• Set Design: Anna Louizos
• Lighting Design: Kenneth Posner
• Sound Design: Nevin Steinberg

The Broadway production’s creative team brought the magic of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s timeless music to life while infusing the story with modern flair. Their work earned critical acclaim and made the 2013 Cinderella a beloved addition to Broadway history.