‘The Other Cinderella’ returning to Black Ensemble Theater

Black Ensemble Theatre (BET) is reviving an old fairy tale-with a little spin-as part of its holiday season series. When The Other Cinderella premiered in 1976 featuring BET founder and artistic director, Jackie Taylor, in the title role, it was an instan

Black Ensemble Theatre (BET) is reviving an old fairy tale-with a little spin as part of its holiday season series.

When The Other Cinderella premiered in 1976 featuring BET founder and artistic director, Jackie Taylor, in the title role, it was an instant success. This revised version retells the famous fairytale with a contemporary account: Stepmama works at the post office, the two stepsisters “don’t do nuthin,” the Brothers are from the hood, Cinderella was born in the projects and the Fairy Godmama is from Jamaica.

Just as in the traditional Cinderella story, there is a king, a queen and a prince, but in this kingdom, everybody has soul. The Other Cinderella is appropriate for all ages, featuring original music, exciting dance and a heartwarming story that reminds audiences of the greatness of the human spirit.

“I am always thrilled when it’s time to remount this production, said Taylor. “Our audiences and community have embraced The Other Cinderella as their holiday classic, making it a special family tradition over the years.”

Cast for The Other Cinderella includes Keith Alexander as Page; Donald Barns as King, Cynthia Carter as Queen; Rashada Dawan as Margarite; Javon Echoles II as Peanut Butter; Dwayne Lonzo, Attendant; Allison McCorkle, Dorothy; Melanie McCullough as Cinderella; Dawn Mitchell as Fairy Godmama; Jessica Moore, Lady in Waiting; Kenneth Nole, Pee Wee; Rhonda Preston, Stepmama; Carla Stewart, Geneiva; RaShawn Tompson, Prince, and Cory Wright, Groundhog.

Orchestra for BET is directed by Jimmy Tillman, with arrangements by Thomas Washington.

Black Ensemble Theatre, 4520 N. Beacon St., was established following Jackie Taylor’s return from appearances in Hollywood. She has written and produced more than 100 original productions, in addition to BET’s main stage productions.

The Other Cinderella continues through December 28, with performances at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and Sundays at 3 p.m.

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