Local News

Timeless classic comes to life at Newport Opera House in ‘Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella’ 

NEWPORT, N.H. — The Newport Opera House Association proudly presents the enchanting musical, “Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella,” live on the Charles H. Massey Community Stage at the historic Newport Opera House. 

The performances take place on May 9 and 10 at 7 p.m. and May 11 at 2 p.m.  

Step into a world of magic, romance, and unforgettable music as “Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella” sweeps you off your feet. Originally premiering in 1957 with Julie Andrews, this beloved adaptation quickly became a historic television event, captivating millions of viewers as the most-watched broadcast of its time. 

Featuring cherished songs such as “In My Own Little Corner,” “Stepsisters’ Lament,” and “Ten Minutes Ago,” this production beautifully blends heartwarming storytelling with stunning musical arrangements. Whether you’re revisiting the magic or experiencing it for the first time, this performance is a must-see for audiences of all ages. 

This delightful production features a talented cast, including Cinderella – Maja Thomas; Prince – Carter Gardner; Stepmother – Kelly Swegart; Joy – Jenn Hewson; Portia – Alison Wood; King – Doug Barton; Queen – Susan Hastings; Godmother – Fran Huot; Herald – Chris Gardner; Chef – Kaeleen Fallon; and Steward – Amelia Caravan.  

The creative team includes Director – Laura McCrillis Kessler; Scenic Designer and Consultant – Charles H. Massey; Music Director – Alexander Stewart; Stage Manager – Don Boxwell; Assistant Director – Sandra Flint; Technical Director – Chris Gardner; Costume Designers – Heidi Bartlett and Donna Reid Holdman; and Choreographers – Megan Mavor (ballroom scenes) and Kaeleen Fallon (“Your Majesties” dance). 

The talented set builders and painters — builders Chris Gardner, Kevin Corliss, and Milton Hastings, along with painters Mal McLaughlin, Karen Little, Heidi Lorenz, Chris Scott, Mindy Thorpe, Nancy Meyer and Jay Holdman — have brought the scenic designs of Charles H. Massey to life, creating true magic within the Newport Opera House. Costume designers Heidi Bartlett and Donna Reid Holdman have helped transform the cast into fairy-tale royalty and lively townsfolk, using imaginative designs to capture the spirit of each character and enhance the magical world of “Cinderella”. 

With a dedicated cast and crew of over 50 from the communities of Newport, Sunapee, Claremont, Croydon, Springfield, Grantham, Lempster, New London and Cornish, “Cinderella” proudly showcases community theatre at its finest. 

Don’t miss this extraordinary theatrical experience. Purchase your tickets today at newportoperahouse.com or call the Box Office at 603-863-2412 and be part of the magic. 

This production is made possible through the generosity of the NH Charitable Foundation’s Roy M. Malool Family Foundation Fund. 

For more information, visit newportoperahouse.com