Gorham High School (GHS) continues to impress with its annual musical. This year’s production is Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella,” directed by Joshua Hurd and Mathew Murray, is an updated version of the original story featuring democracy and a nice step sister.
Sierra Cummings, GHS sophomore, stars as Cinderella. This was not her first year in the spotlight; in last years’ “Once on this Island” she played one of many leads, Papa Ge.
“I’m at a loss of words of how amazing this production was,” said Cummings who expressed her love for the cast and crew after months of preparation. “I loved working with everyone and putting it together. It’s so intricate.”
Photo credit Amanda Landry PhotographyA pumpkin is transformed into a golden carriage led by horses and footmen.
Alongside Cummings is GHS senior Simon Roussel, who plays Prince Topher. “Cinderella” is Roussel’s first musical, however, he does have past singing experience with GHS Chamber Singers.
“It was definitely hard stepping into the role with no experience. I was very nervous because I felt like I needed to prove I deserved the role,” said Roussel. “Over the past few months the production came together quite well.”
The show also features a split cast. Opening weekend featured Veronica Steiner as Madam, the evil stepmother; Abby Miller as Gabrielle; the kind step sister; and Kirsten Drew as Charlotte, the ditzy stepsister whose actions closely resemble her mother. This weekend will feature Caroline Dowdle, Emily Paruk, and Leah Scontras respectively.
“A split cast is tricky because you get half the amount of rehearsal time as everyone else. It’s also sad because you only get to perform three times,” said Abby Miller. “However, it was still an awesome experience. I loved sharing notes and helping each other. I also gained a whole new group of friends.”
Other leads include Westley Brinegar as Jean Michel, a revolutionary with an eye on Gabrielle; Isaac Martel as the plotting aid Sebastion; Meghan Reidy as the magical fairy godmother Marie; and Jackson Robbins as the town’s spokesperson, Lord Pinkleton.
Overall, the production is a wonderful, excitement-filled story that adds a new kick to a classic tale. Remaining show times are Friday, February 8, and Saturday, February 9, at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, February 10, at 2:30 p.m.
Sierra Cummings (Cinderella) performs with Veronica Steiner (Madam), Kirsten Drew (Charlotte) and Abby Miller (Gabrielle).
Simon Roussel (Prince Topher) leads his men (l to r) Alex Leary, Connor Donnelly, Isaac Martel (Lord Pinkelton), Jackson Robbins (Sebastion), Anthony Booth, and Corey Blake.
Westley Brinegar (Jean-Michel) is joined by ensemble members (l to r) Kendall Smith, Jade Wu, Kaylin Brown, Molly Lemont and Melanie Wright.
Meghan Reidy plays Marie, the fairy godmother.
Marie and Cinderella examine a gold coin given to them by the Prince.
Simon Roussel and Sierra Cummings as Prince Topher and Cinderella.
The glass slipper fits!
