Magic sparks and dreams come true in Cinderella
“Do I love you because you’re beautiful or are you beautiful because I love you?” Christian Bautista sings as he charms his way to Karylle Tatlonghari’s heart. Much to the delight of the audience, the harana goes on with the grand palace as their backdrop.
Bautista and Tatlonghari top bills yet again another magical tandem, this time in Resorts World Manila production, Cinderella. The fairy tale is a timeless hit that needs to be retold—but now in a bigger and better musical ensemble that will definitely swoon romantics and dreamers of all ages.
“What makes this Cinderella different from Broadway productions is that it walks a fine line. If it’s too heavy and somber, it’ll look like an opera. If it’s too lightweight and cartoony, it becomes slapstick and pantomime. You have to find a middle ground in between. We use real buildings and real architecture that are meticulously done so that it feels real. It’s going to be a new brand of Cinderella,” Production Designer Andrew Botha says.
True enough, everything about the production seemingly blurs the line between the real and the magical while infusing some of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s most beloved songs like “In My Own Little Corner”, “Ten Minutes Ago”, and “Impossible/It’s Possible”.
While majority of the spectators already know the storyline of this classic tale, the lucky audiences at the gala night held prior to its official grand opening were nonetheless treated to a spellbinding show. One of the highlights of the story perhaps would be the confrontation of Cinderella and her Fairy Grandmother (played by Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo) before the majestic royal ball. It instilled life without being too preachy. With subtlety, their banters empowered women and kids alike to do something about their wishes as one’s destiny is his/her responsibility.
The music by the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra adds icing to the cake.
Besides Bautista and Tatlonghari, also included in the all-Filipino ensemble are Julie Abeva, Pinky Marques, Sweet Plantado, Shiela Francisco, Miguel Faustmann, Giannina Ocampo, Maronne Cruz, and Red Concepcion.
Resorts World Manila held a gala night prior to its grand opening last Oct. 9 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. The musical production will run until December.
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