Bippity, boppity, boo! Have a ball watching the performance of Cinderella at the North Fork Community Theatre, July 18 through August 4
Opening on Thursday, July 18, and running Thursday through Sunday through August 4, an enchanting, Tony-nominated adaptation of Cinderella will grace the stage of North Fork Community Theatre in Mattituck.
Petite North Fork got to chat with show director Liz Liszanckie and learn all about the magic, whimsy, and fun of the beloved musical by Rodgers and Hammerstein with a twist presented by Youth on Stage actors.
Q: Does the show follow the classic storyline?
Liz: Mostly. This is the version that went to Broadway in 2013. There are step sisters and a stepmother who make Ella's life difficult. There is a fairy godmother who does get Cinderella ready for the ball, but there are a few other characters that also give the show another layer of storytelling. Don't worry... there is still a pumpkin that turns into a carriage and the magic will run out at midnight. The classic story is still there.
Photo by Anthony Graziano, courtesy of North Fork Community Theatre
Q: What makes this performance unique?
Liz: We have added some steampunk elements as a theme to the ball to add a visual twist to the telling of such a recognizable story. The Youth on Stage program at North Fork Community Theatre is also unique. For over 50 years, this program has been a great opportunity to provide youth with a creative outlet over the summer. There are kids who do a show or two in high school and then there are theater kids — the ones that love every part of theater and simply can't get enough. This program is for those kids.
Q: What element does having youth actors as the performers bring to the show?
Liz: Energy, and they seem to have an endless supply. Each brings their own unique take and I try to make it a nurturing environment so they feel welcome to make suggestions and feel heard. This is their show and I just try to react to their talents and find the theme that brings each unique personality together in a cohesive way.
Q: From auditions to opening night, how long has the cast been preparing?
Liz: We had seven weeks from auditions to opening. They rehearse 5 nights a week and those start running late once school is out. They shine on stage, but it's because they put in the work to make it so.
Q: In addition to the regularly scheduled performances, North Fork Community Theatre is offering a sensory-friendly performance on Saturday, July 27 at 2:30 p.m. Tell us a bit about it.
Liz: This is our first time offering a sensory-friendly performance so we are learning as we go. We will be bringing the house lights up a bit and lessening the extreme lighting elements to not be as visually aggressive. Our orchestrations will be piano and minimal percussion to keep extra loud sounds in check. We plan to introduce some of the cast before we start the show for those who might be experiencing theater for the first time. We have ASL sign language interpreters as well. We are trying to minimize extreme sounds or lights to make the experience less overwhelming and most importantly it will be a judgement free zone for anyone who does become overwhelmed. Our biggest challenge so far has been getting this information to those who could benefit from it. This being the first time we are trying it means that we have the additional challenge of informing our audience.
Cinderella presented by Youth on Stage at North Fork Community Theatre will run approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes including a 15-minute intermission. Concessions will be sold before the show and during intermission. Tickets cost $30 per person not including tax. View the complete schedule and purchase tickets here. This performance is appropriate for people of all ages.
Photo by Anthony Graziano, courtesy of North Fork Community Theatre