If Theatre Under the Stars isn’t yet one of your family’s summer traditions, it really should be.
It just doesn’t get any better than snuggling under a blanket at Malkin Bowl in Stanley Park, watching a musical as the sun sets and the stars begin to shine above. Especially when that musical is Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, and you’re just feeling the magic.
Having had the fun of taking along my newly-turned-six-year-old last week, I can recommend it as a worthwhile family outing that got said six-year-old dancing and humming along, even well past her bedtime.
Laura Cowan is a big part of the success of this year’s production, as she brings her warm and genuine stage presence – not to mention a golden voice with a soaring upper register – to the role of the Fairy Godmother. She’s perfectly paired with Mallory James, who’s a winning and likable Cinderella and a natural storyteller in song.
Other strong performances come from Tré Cotten as Prince Topher, Vanessa Merenda and Amanda Lourenco as the stepsisters, and the delightful Caitlin Clugston as the stepmother, Madame, who brings the necessary dash of villainy to the stage before (spoiler alert) everyone's redeemed in the end.
Cinderella plays on odd-numbered days in July and even-numbered days in August, until it closes Aug. 18. It’s alternating with 42nd Street. (I can’t give you any personal insight into this one, since I’ve yet to see it, but be sure to let me know what you think if you go.)
Tickets range from $30 to $49, and shows run on alternate evenings until Aug. Check out www.tuts.ca for schedules and tickets.
(Pro tip: If you take a small person, buying seats alongside the edge of the front section will get you a clear view with no people in front, since the rows are staggered. Choose your own seats so you can snag the edge.)
Have you seen one of this year's TUTS productions? Share your thoughts - send Julie an email at jmaclellan@burnabynow.com.
