The Black Ensemble Theater, who recently celebrated the ground breaking of the new Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center, is thrilled to launch the 2010-2011 season with a revival of the show that started it all, "The Other Cinderella." Written, produced and directed by Black Ensemble Theater Founder and Executive Director Jackie Taylor and co-directed and choreographed by Rueben Echoles, "The Other Cinderella" re-imagines the "traditional" Cinderella with an infusion of surprising new twists and vibrant characters. This production was the first show ever produced by the company, and over the years the popular show has become a Black Ensemble Theater classic. Preview performances begin October 16 at the Black Ensemble Theater, 4520 N. Beacon Street, with the opening on Sunday, October 24 at 3:00pm.
There have been many adaptations of the classic fairytale, "Cinderella"; however few possess the flair that Jackie Taylor and the talented cast of Black Ensemble Theater have to bring to the sixteenth triumphant return of "The Other Cinderella." Originally performed in 1976, the show contains elements that reflect the era in which it was written. Over time, "The Other Cinderella" has developed and has continued to adapt to its new surroundings each time it graces the Black Ensemble Theater stage. The old fairy tale still contains characters like the lovable Fairy God Mama and the Brothers from the 'hood, but is now peppered with pop culture references and contemporary humor.
"Black Ensemble Theater celebrates tradition, and we look forward to returning to our roots once again with 'The Other Cinderella'," noted Black Ensemble Theater Founder and Artistic Director Jackie Taylor. "Using a classic, universal story gives us an opportunity to use our creativity and originality to reinvent the story and the characters in a new and exciting way."
Candace Edwards will star as Cinderella alongside Deja Taylor as The Fairy God Mama. "The Other Cinderella" also stars Rhonda Preston, Katrina Miller, Robin Beaman, Trinity Murdock, Noreen Stark, Lawrence Williams, Rueben Echoles, Michael Bartlett, Mandy Lewis, Cory Wright, Joshua N. Banks, Christina Cain and Nina Coleman.
Musical Director Robert Reddrick is joined by a four-piece orchestra that includes Tracy Baker on bass, Herbert Walker on guitar, Mark Moutrop on piano.
In addition to directing, Taylor is also the costume designer and is joined on the production team by Vickie Spires (stage manager), Denise Karczewski (lighting design), and Carl Ulaszek (set design).