By Jonah Grinkewitz
ODURep and ODU Opera have partnered with the Diehn Chorale and ODU Symphony Orchestra for a production of Rodgers and Hammerstein's "Cinderella."
The show opens March 25 and runs through April 3 at the University Theatre.
Katherine Hammond, associate chair of communication and theatre arts at ODU and director of the musical, said the collaboration was two years in the making.
"We meant to do the show last spring, but COVID made it impossible," she said.
More than 100 students worked on the largest musical production ODU has ever staged.
"We are delighted that our arts groups at ODU have the opportunity to collaborate in this monumental endeavor," she said. "ODURep and ODU Opera often work together, but we haven't worked with the full orchestra since our 2011 production of 'Hansel and Gretel,' and the addition of the Diehn Chorale is new."
Brian Nedvin, associate professor in the F. Ludwig Diehn School of Music, is the musical director. Paul Sanho Kim, also an associate professor in the Diehn School of Music, will conduct the show.
The music is true to the original Rodgers and Hammerstein version, but the story was updated by playwright Douglas Carter Beane for a Broadway revival in 2013.
"The new book gives Cinderella much more agency in her life," Hammond said.
While fighting for her own dreams and trying to escape the toil of her life at home, she also helps the Prince believe in his ability to be king one day.
Tickets can be purchased here. Free parking is available in the Constant Center Garage on 1060 W. 45th St.
A full list of the show dates:
- March 25, 7:30 p.m.
- March 26, 7:30 p.m.
- March 27, 2 p.m.
- March 31, 7:30 p.m.
- April 1, 7:30 p.m.
- April 2, 7:30 p.m.
- April 3, 2 p.m.
