The story of Cinderella is much older than most people realize. The oldest known oral versions of the tale come from Ancient Greece. The most famous version, the one most Cinderella stories today are based off of, is Charles Perrault’s 1697 version. Since that time, the story has become especially beloved, with many different creators making their own versions of the story, from the Brothers Grimm, to Walt Disney, to Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II.

What makes the Cinderella story so endearing? There are certainly memorable elements to the tale, like a pumpkin transformed into a carriage and glass slippers, but I think there’s more to it. We love the Cinderella story because, in the end, it is a story about optimism. The idea that anyone can go from “rags to riches” is an attractive idea to all of us, especially in America, the land of opportunity. In addition, Cinderella is such a likeable character because of how nice she is. Most of us would not find ourselves acting as respectful as poor Ella if we were in her shoes. Ella is who we all aspire to be.

I am so unbelievably proud of this cast and crew. They have put in long hours of rehearsal and set construction to make this dream a reality. There are so many moving parts that go along with a show like this: from cast to stage crew to pit orchestra to tech crew to construction and paint crew. Everyone has put in amazing effort into this show. They say it takes a village to raise a child, and it certainly takes a village to put on a show of this magnitude. I am so grateful for everyone’s efforts on the show. Please take the time to read about all of them in the online program.

This show is dedicated to my grandmother, Shirley Iverson (1931-2024). She was my first audience member back when I was a young kid directing shows with toys and I know she is watching down on the show today.

Please enjoy the Hartford Players production of Cinderella!

– Adam Iverson