Children's Theatre of Elgin's 'Ella' puts modern spin on fairy tale

Posted April 04, 2022 11:00 pm

Submitted by Children's Theatre of Elgin

The cast of Children's Theatre of Elgin's "Ella, a Modern Cinderella Story" rehearses. Featured dancers are shown with Ella, played by Olivia Eckersberg. Courtesy of Children's Theatre of Elgin

Children's Theatre of Elgin's original take on classic fairy tale opens Friday

Combining the classic fairy tale everyone knows and loves with a contemporary twist, Children's Theatre of Elgin's original show "Ella, A Modern Cinderella Story" is perfect for a 21st century audience.

It's a fresh new take on the beloved story of a young woman rundown with work and school, who falls victim to her wicked stepmother and stepsister's evil whims. However, a supportive teacher encourages her to find her own happiness and see what happily ever after is really about.

Performances will take place at 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 8; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 9; and 2 p.m. Sunday, April 10, at the Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. Tickets are $14 for adults, $12 for students and seniors, and available at www.cteelgin.com or by calling (847) 214-7550.

"'Ella, A Modern Cinderella Story' still encompasses the classic tale that we all grew up with," says director Allison Cherry. "But it brings a vibrant, modern approach to a beloved story by suggesting that magic is the result of finding joy that exists within each of us."

As Ella navigates her way to becoming a strong and independent woman, she experiences some unexpected twists and turns along the way.

"We are so excited to bring this story of female empowerment and resiliency to life and inspire audiences of all ages," Cherry added.

Working with a cast of almost 100 second through ninth grade students is a creative team made up entirely of educators - director Allison Cherry, associate director Sarah Robertson, vocal director Samantha Collins and choreographer Maddie Genz. In addition, CTE brought on Rocio del Castillo, assistant superintendent for special services in Huntley Community School District 158, as its artistic director of equity, diversity and inclusion to foster the ongoing commitment to equal representation. With her guidance, CTE is happy to offer Spanish supertitles during their Friday night and Saturday afternoon performances.

CTE requires all patrons and visitors to provide a picture ID (if over the age of 18), as well as either proof of COVID-19 vaccination or negative test certification. Masks will be required for this event. For full health and safety policy information, visit the website at www.cteelgin.com.

Children's Theatre of Elgin/Fox Valley Theatre Company is an Illinois 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation in-residence at the Elgin Community College Arts Center. The organization is supported by grants from the EFS Foundation, Palmer Foundation, Grand Victoria Foundation, Arts Midwest, Seigle Foundation, Elgin Cultural Arts Commission and the Illinois Arts Council Agency.

Reagan Young as Fairy Godmother and Oliva Eckersberg as Ella rehearse a scene from Children's Theatre of Elgin's "Ella, a Modern Cinderella Story." Courtesy of Children's Theatre of Elgin

Olivia Eckersberg plays Ella/Cinderella and Owen Kelly is Charlie/Prince Charming in Children's Theatre of Elgin's "Ella, a Modern Cinderella Story." Performances are at the Hemmens in Elgin. Courtesy of Children's Theatre of Elgin

The cast of Children's Theatre of Elgin's "Ella, a Modern Cinderella Story" rehearses. Performances are April 8-10 at the Hemmens in Elgin. Courtesy of Children's Theatre of Elgin

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