Classic Tale of Love, Magic, Wonder, ‘Cinderella’ Comes to Highlander Theatre

WARRENSBURG, MO (Nov. 7, 2023) – A classic family-friendly tale comes to life as the University of Central Missouri’s Theatre and Dance and Music programs present Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella” in the James L. Highlander Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 10, 11, 16, 17, and 18, and at 2 p.m. Nov. 12.

“Cinderella” is a story about self-discovery that enchants with its timeless songs, dazzling costumes and iconic characters. The production is full of magic and wonder as Cinderella makes her way to the ball and finds her Prince Charming, although not without a few bumps on the horse-drawn carriage ride. On her journey she makes friends, finds love, and changes minds, proving that kindness prevails over all while also serving as a reminder that dreams really can come true.

When asked about the production, Director Dr. Aaron Scully stated, “This is the perfect show for the entire family - big, colorful, fun and energetic. The cast and crew are working really hard to make sure that everyone who comes to see ‘Cinderella’ will have a blast! I’m sure they will.”

Musical Director Daniel Doss also remarked, “You don’t want to miss one of the most ambitious productions I’ve ever conducted here at UCM, with just as many musicians in the orchestra pit as there are actors on stage.”

The production features choreography by Megan Helmers, who is the Meridith Harmon Sauer Guest Artist. Helmers spent four days on campus with the cast instructing them on the show’s choreography, including beautiful waltzes and ballroom-style dances. Her choreography residency was generously funded by both the Meridith Harmon Guest Artists Series fund and by a grant from the UCM Digital Learning and Instructional Innovation’s Speaker Series.

During the matinee at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 12, UCM Theatre and Dance will present its Pay-What-You-Can performance. Members of the audience may choose to pay any amount, $1 or above, for a ticket. Following the Sunday matinee, those in attendance will be able to join in a “Meet the Characters” event in the James L. Highlander Theatre lobby and will have the opportunity to take photos with the performers. Additionally, for the Thursday, Nov. 16, evening performance, ASL interpreters will be provided.

New this year, all tickets for UCM Theatre and Dance productions are free for UCM students upon showing their university student ID. Tickets are also free for active military, veterans, and military families upon their purchase at the Theatre and Dance Box Office, Martin Building Room 113, with a military ID. This production was made possible, in part, by university alumna Jeanne McDowell’s generous contribution to UCM’s Musical Theatre program.

The cast includes: Miranda Muenz as Cinderella, Riley Given as Prince Topher, Shanna Sinow as Madame, Katie Kaminski as Marie/Fairy Godmother, Alyna Mathews as Charlotte, Alannah Trigg as Gabrielle, Daniel Gage as Sebastian, Trae Selemaea as Jean-Michel and Chris Schilligo as Lord Pinkleton. The Ensemble features Nicholas Dmitry Crawford, Kyp Bellis,Riley Wyatt, Cal Klaus, Finn Juliano, Quinn Allen, Rosalyn Schuster, Addie Rutherford, Jen White, Claire Groos, Emily Turner, TiJhana Hines, and Raegan Weber.

The production team includes Director Dr. Aaron Scully; Musical Director Daniel Doss; Choreographer Megan Helmers; Assistant Director Raegan Weber; Stage Manager Jacob Collins; Assistant Stage Manager Xander Corkins; Dance Captain Addie Rutherford; Sound Designer Aleksandra Combs; Lighting Designer Gracie Heath; Scenic Designer Spencer Musser; Costume, Hair and Makeup Designer Cassie Kay Hoppas; Property Designer Finn Williams; Light Board Operator Mason Enright; Sound Board Operator Stephanie Heathcock; Publicity/Marketing Directors Riley Given and Quinn Allen; Social Media Marketing Specialist Shanna Sinow; Graduate Shop Assistant Dalima Kapten; Box Office Managers Molly Jones and Wesley Freeman; Assistant Box Office Manager Raegan Medlock; House Manager Emily Meehan; Office Professional Lars Jepsen; Office Student Assistants Shanna Sinow and Grace Clark. 

The Highlander Theatre is located on Clark Street, near Holden Street. Free parking is available in the parking lot directly south of the theatre. Individuals who have questions about the production are asked to please contact Dr. Aaron Scully at ascully@ucmo.edu  or call the Theatre and Dance main office at 660-543-4020.

Tickets are available at the UCM Theatre and Dance Office in Martin Building, Room 113, 8 a.m. to  5 p.m. Monday-Friday, by calling 660-543-8811, or online at ucmboxoffice.universitytickets.com. Anyone who has questions about tickets should call 660-543-8811 or email boxoffice@ucmo.edu.