OPA Presents “Cinderella” January 3-5, 10-12

Ovation Performing Arts (OPA) waltzes into the new year with a magical production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Broadway version of “Cinderella.” The musical will run six shows, January 3-12, at Ridgeview High School, 4555 SW Elkhorn Ave. Tickets are $14 or $48 for a family four-pack.

“Cinderella has been on my top stories list since the list first formed,” said David Purkey, who is directing with OPA for the first time. “Joy, integrity, self-advocacy, love, and kindness are just a few ingredients that make Cinderella an internationally beloved metaphorical apple pie.”

The timeless story tells the tender and powerful tale of Ella, who dreams of escaping her oppressive life and intolerable stepfamily. She comes to discover a little kindness can bring about a world of magic, with just a bit of help from her Fairy Godmother. The updated stage version debuted on Broadway in 2013, with a contemporary take on the classic tale, featuring new characters, surprising twists, commanding score and beloved songs such as, “In My Own Little Corner.”

“This cast has risen to the challenge of presenting the Cinderella story with every traditionally beloved moment and added a few of their own to pass on to future generations,” Purkey said. “Central Oregon is in for an artistic feast.”

The production is a community collaboration with participants from across Central Oregon and will feature masterful sets and costumes, a 15-person live orchestral accompaniment, and large-scale ensemble scenes with nearly 70 homeschooled students from Madras to La Pine, plus musicians from various programs and ensembles. In addition to the show, a silent auction will be available before the show and during intermission to benefit OPA, a nonprofit. The auction will feature various items donated by businesses in the community as well as items hand-crafted by cast members.

“I had the pleasure of working with OPA as a student actor before it even existed as OPA,” said Purkey, who also runs Meadow Sky Productions. “This group has a wonderful culture of hard work, enthusiasm, and talent – all things I greatly value and treasure.”

For tickets or more information, please visit www.ovationpa.com. Production-related questions as well as advertising and sponsorship opportunities may be directed to Show Coordinator, Andrea Garner at garner3461@gmail.com.