Rosary High School to stage 'Cinderella' musical

Rosary High School will present the musical, "Cinderella, The Enchanted Edition" on Nov. 7-9, at Rosary High School's McEnroe Auditorium, 901 N. Edgelawn Drive in Aurora. The show features the songs "A Lovely Night," "In My Own Little Corner," "Ten Minutes Ago," "Impossible" and more. It features music by Richard Rodgers, with book and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein III. It was adapted for the stage by Tom Briggs from the teleplay by Robert L. Freeman.

The timeless enchantment of a magical fairy tale is reborn with the Rodgers and Hammerstein hallmarks of originality, charm and elegance. "Cinderella" was originally presented on television in 1957 starring Julie Andrews, and again in 1965 starring Lesley Ann Warren. A third version in 1997 starring Brandy transported a new generation to the miraculous kingdom of dreams-come-true. (This "Enchanted Edition" is based on the 1997 teleplay.) As adapted for the stage with great warmth and more than a touch of hilarity, the hearts of children and adults alike still soar when the slipper fits.

Stage direction is by Ali Kordelewski, and music and vocal direction is by Megan Drahos. Technical directors are Rob Stredde and Chris Huntoon, and the choreographer is Rachael McNish-Pierce. The cast includes more than 45 students from Rosary High School and Marmion Academy in Aurora, and 20 children from area Catholic schools. The show will also feature members of Marmion Academy's Flannigan Rifles. Music is provided by a small group from the Rosary Symphony and Chamber Orchestras, musicians from the Marmion-Rosary Band, and several local musicians.

Show dates are 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8; and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9. Show tickets are $10, or $8 for students, senior citizens and children.

A pancake breakfast with the cast is planned for Saturday at 11 a.m. for $5, and Saturday evening features a pre-show wine tasting with hot hors d'oeuvres, an opportunity for photos with the cast, and a dessert reception during intermission for $30. Preregistration is required. Both events are fundraisers sponsored by the Rosary Fine Arts Boosters to fund already-installed auditorium improvements, including lights, sound, a projection system, and remodeled backstage dressing rooms.

Tickets are available online at rosaryhs.com/musical. Tickets also can be purchased in the Rosary school office. For information, call (630) 896-0831.