Cinderella

Last night, young and old alike (some dressed in costumes) enjoyed the opening of "Cinderella," the Rotary Club's 61st musical production. The enthusiastic crowd was enchanted by the tale of the evil stepfamily, handsome prince and pumpkins-turned-carriage, directed ably by Patrick Burk. 

The show opened with ballet-style dancers, a theme that continued througout the show. Paul Spiotta, as the Herald, had the first musical number, his talents setting the bar high for the rest of the show as he proclaimed that "the prince is having a ball." Fortunately, the rest of the show reached the bar easily.

The evil stepmother and stepsisters, portrayed by Jane Burk, Deanna Spiotta and Caryn Burk, entertained everyone with their bickering and over-the-top antics. Whiny, glum Joy and giggling airhead Portia were audience favorites.  

Esteemed Rotary vet Cheryl Maier was the perfect Fairy Godmother, returning to the stage for her ninth Rotary show. Alex Balbi, Shawnie Woeller and Eric Waples also had solid performances as the King, Queen and Prince, providing both comic relief and some sweet romantic moments. 

Rachel Oshlag was a lovely Cinderella, emulating charm and sweetness in her first singing role since her school days.

"I've known Rachel since she was in high school," audience member Patty Pacino told me, "and she is Cinderella." 

"We are very proud of her, and the rest of the cast," her father, Jeff Oshlag, said.

All in all, "Cinderella" makes for an enjoyable evening for the whole family. All of the audience members I spoke to had positive things to say about the show.

"I think this is very enjoyable," said Don Fryling. "It's very entertaining."

Pacino agreed with him:  "I've seen this show before. This one is even more charming. I never knew my dentist could juggle. And I'd never seen Paul Spiotta in tights."

There are three performances remaining: tonight and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and a Sunday matinee at 2.