A tale as old as time, Cind... Oh, wrong story...
Cinderella originated as a greek tale hundreds of years ago and has been retold through several versions across the globe. In the mid 1950's, it eventually made it's way to the ledgendary musical theater team of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II. The trend of big TV networks producing live musicals has it's roots in the early 50's, airing adaptations of musicals for the small screen. However in 1956, CBS had approached the dynamic partners to write the score for a completley new show, not one that had already existed. The concept was to use the old Greek tale of Cinderella (or 'The Little Glass Slipper'), and create a brand new story with new music (seperate from the then recent Disney Animated Feature. They were sold once NBC notified them that they had signed Julie Andrews (of Marry Poppins and more) to play the title role. In 1957, it aired to an audience of an astronomical 107 million Americans (at a time when the US population was 172 million). That record held for nearly 40 years.
It was then revived with additional music in 1965 with Lesley Ann Warren, then again in 1997 with Whitney Houston and Brandy, adding even more music. It has also been a popular musical production since the original airing in 1957, but never saw the great white way until 2013! This new take is truly magical! It takes numerous songs from all the previous incarnations and puts them together to create a new story with some new characters. It makes it relatable and current, without taking away it's classic charm and appeal.
This fresh version of a timeless classic has given us so much here at CCHS, and we cannot wait to share it with you all! Our favorite part (besides the music) are the amazing lessons. It emparts onto us to remember to always stay true to yourself and above all else, be kind. And from these two qualities, we will find that there is music in all of us! Thank you for coming and enjoy the show!
