ALT Academy presents the timeless tale of 'Cinderella' in hit musical

The Amarillo Little Theatre (ALT) academy invites the community to enjoy a classic retelling with a twist during its production of "Cinderella," to be held March 24 through April 2 at the Allen Shankles Mainstage, located at 2009 Civic Circle.

The production closely follows Tony Award-winning 2013 Broadway revival of the classic tale, with music by Richard Rodgers and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, based off both the new book retelling by Douglas Carter Beane and the original book by Oscar Hammerstein II.

"Everyone has a story, food, (or) item of comfort, and I think that is exactly what 'Cinderella' provides, especially with the turbulent times we are in," said Mikayla Garren, production director and ALT Academy director. "It's such a grown-up world, and this is a way to escape; even those that are not quite grown-ups yet have troubles. There is something about going to see a familiar story and knowing what will happen at the end, and knowing that everything is going to be okay, that provides encouragement and comfort that we all need right now."

The production follows Ella, who lives as a personal servant to her stepmother and two stepsisters, who treat her cruelly, even mocking her with the nickname “Cinderella” due to the cinders on her face from cleaning fireplaces. But everything could change when Ella bravely chooses to protect a friend from a difficult situation.

Her kindness is repaid by the seemingly “Impossible” opportunity to attend the royal ball, where Ella has the chance to meet Prince Topher, a young prince trying to find himself and rule his kingdom well. With the help of some unexpected friends and a little bit of magic, Ella finds herself with the chance to make her voice heard and to influence the world around her for good. This new telling of the known and loved story of "Cinderella" is a beautiful reminder that with a heart filled with love and kindness, dreams do come true.

"There are different versions, but especially in this version, she is funny," said Bodi Parks, who is portraying Ella in ALT's "Cinderella." "Ella adds such a comical aspect to the story that makes it a little bit different and a little bit more of an interesting layer to her character, while still portraying her as being a princess."

"Cinderella" features 74 Academy students, ages 5 through 18, and is directed by Academy Director Mikayla Garren. Academy instructor Brandon Bellar and Beth Alexander lend their talents as Music Director and Choreographer, respectively. Ben Burke serves as Assistant Director; Chriselda Reyes and Academy alumna Sterling Knight serve as Production Assistants; and current Academy student Cameron Parrack serves as Assistant Music Director. The beautiful fairytale kingdom comes to the ALT stage with a set design by Tana Robertson and costume coordination of Kaleena Nite.

The fun and beauty of "Cinderella" is elevated by Rodgers and Hammerstein’s music, including longtime favorites such as “Ten Minutes Ago,” “Impossible” and “In My Own Little Corner,” as well as instant new favorites including “Me, Who Am I?” and “When You’re Driving Through the Moonlight.”

This favorite story of generations is being presented Friday, March 24 through Sunday, April 2. Ticket prices are $18 for ages 12 and up and $15 for ages under 12. Reservations can be made by calling the ALT box office at 806-355-9991, or online at www.amarillolittletheatre.org.

'Cinderella' showtimes:

7:30 p.m.: March 24, 25 and 31 and April 1

2:30 p.m.: March 25 and 26 and April 1-2

This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Amarillo Little Theatre Academy to present 'Cinderella' musical