This isn’t a peaches-and-cream fairy tale.
“Cinderella” is being presented by Valparaiso’s Chicago Street Theatre — and it boasts an intriguing spin.
“It’s not your stereotypical production; I think the characters have more meat to them,” Kelley Weisenbacher, a co-director, said. “I like that it’s more realistic.”
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As portrayed in Chicago Street’s interpretation, Cinderella is a girl whose feelings and behavior reflect more modern times.
“I would say she’s a lot more willing to speak her mind; she’s not demure at all,” Jay T. Hanaway, the other co-director, said.
But at its heart, “Cinderella” is an “enchanting retelling of a fairy tale favorite,” according to promotional material from the theater company.
“Cinderella” runs Friday through Sept. 6 at Chicago Street’s venue, 154 W. Chicago St. in downtown Valparaiso.
Inserted into the story is legendary composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
“The Prince calls him Wolfie,” Hanaway said.
“He’s the Prince’s best friend; he’s just a fun character,” said Weisenbacher, alluding to Wolfgang’s “spunky” and “rebellious” traits.
Weisenbacher said the magical elements of “Cinderella” lend themselves to visual panache.
“We’re using a lot of flash pots and special effects,” she said. “I love special effects.”
Those kinds of theatrics will help move along the music-laced story of Prince Sebastian and Wolfgang.
Audiences can follow their exploits as they head outside the castle in disguise to get a handle on just who is attending the Royal Ball. Mistaken identities and merry mayhem ensue.
The storyline also finds Cinderella coping with the loss of her mother.
In Chicago Street Theatre’s version, Cinderella’s stepmother and stepsisters do not seem as evil as their depictions in other previous retellings of the fairy tale.
Weisenbacher said she and Hanaway guide a cast of 19, which spans a gamut of ages. Performers engage in some animated action, including sword fighting.
The audience also will have the chance to enjoy comedy and feel a dose of empathy.
“It’s got everything that people want to see,” Hanaway said.
Cinderella is played by Elli Bezotte, and Prince Sebastian is portrayed by Justin Williams. Both performers live in Valparaiso.
Some special events are taking place to complement the play’s engagement.
An opening night post-show ice cream party is set for Friday.
On Saturday, “Cinderella’s Garden Party” is set for 4:30 p.m. at the Trinity Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall, 201 N. Washington St., Valparaiso. Tickets for this event — which offers the chance to mingle with the cast — are $10.
Bob Kostanczuk is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
‘Cinderella’
Where: Chicago Street Theatre, 154 W. Chicago St., Valparaiso
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When: 7 p.m. Aug. 21, 28 and Sept. 4; 7 p.m. Aug. 22, Aug. 29 and Sept. 5; 2:30 p.m. Aug. 22, 29, 30 and Sept 5 and 6
Tickets: $12; $10 for students and senior citizens; limited prime seating for $25
Information: 219-464-1636 or chicagostreet.org