Cinderella
Adapted by Jack Neary

Another adaptation geared towards both audiences who'll be in attendence: the kids and the parents (or the aunts or uncles or cousins or babysitters). Telling the classic story this time are two doves, one silly and another practical, Blanche and Whitey, who are privy to the secrets of lovely Marianne, a pretty young girl whose Father has just remarried, and who is looked down upon by her new Stepmother, and her two new Stepsisters, whose names are Gwyneth and Paltrow. (Sorry. I just couldn't resist.)

The story unfolds as a series of fast-moving scenes in which poor Marianne does everything she possibly can to befriend her new "mother" and siblings when her Father goes away on a business trip. The Stepmothers and Stepsisters, however, are mean and nasty (what else could they be?), and spend all of their time ridiculing Marianne, trying to make her angry, which she refuses to do. They even go so far as you nickname her "Cinderella," befitting what they believe to be her station in life, which is to cook and clean and take care of them. Everything changes, however, when the Prince announces that he is seeking a wife. Gwyneth and Paltrow conspire with their Mother to win the Prince's heart, but with the help of Blanche, Whitey and their friend Abe, the Pigeon Tailor, Marianne, aka Cinderella, wins the day.

Many laughs, lots of suspense and adventure. Even some flying. Opportunities for elaborate design or simple staging, whatever works best for your theatre.

Jack Neary’s  Cinderella: a new adaptation, garnered rave reviews from our superintendent, fellow teachers, students and the local paper. Of the 7 years I served as co-director of our junior high drama club, it was my favorite production. The characters are well developed and lines clever. Abe, Cinderella’s Jewish fashion designer dove, was a hoot.

Jane Kerins,

Co-Director, Millbury Junior High Drama Club

Cinderella