Ben Stevenson’s Cinderella

The stage is full of action as Cinderella’s Stepmother and Stepsisters eagerly prepare for the Prince’s upcoming ball. A dressmaker, a wigmaker, and a dancing master all arrive in turn to undertake the seemingly impos­sible task of transforming the Stepsisters—who are cast in the English pantomime tradition with men in female roles—into presentable young ladies. Even in her torn dress Cinderella has far more grace as she tries some of the dancing steps. Full of jealousy, her wicked Stepmother commands Cinderella to return to her chores.

Ben Stevenson’s Cinderella

Left alone to her chores, Cinderella dreams of attending the ball. She playfully picks up her broom and imagines she is there and invited to dance.

Ben Stevenson’s Cinderella

Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother transforms the kitchen into an enchanted wood where dragonflies dart through the forest. Cinderella will attend the ball after all, gloriously attired in the riches of nature, as personified by the fair­ies representing the four seasons. But her beautiful clothes come with a warning that she must return home before midnight or she will once again find herself in rags. A pumpkin and a mischief of mice have been magically transformed into a carriage drawn by a team of horses that will carry Cinder­ella to the ball.

Ben Stevenson’s Cinderella

We are transported to a spectacular ballroom full of distinguished guests with the exception of the Stepsisters who stand out awkwardly. The Court Jester announces the Prince then entertains the crowd with his dazzling acrobatics. He notices the oafish Stepsisters immediately and has some fun at their expense.

Ben Stevenson’s Cinderella

Cinderella arrives at the ball resplendent in her new gown. When she locks eyes with the Prince, it is love at first sight. They dance,
but their time together is interrupted by the fateful striking of
the clock at midnight