Perhaps some of the most influential playwrights of all time, Rodgers and Hammerstein, have certainly left their mark on the theater world and have inspired multiple generations with their classic shows. In fact, Wilton High School is only one of the many schools that has put on some of their productions, such as Oklahoma! and Once Upon a Mattress. None of these shows have disappointed audiences; after all, who doesn’t love a classic musical? However, WHS’s upcoming spring musical, Cinderella, is a Rodgers and Hammerstein production with a twist. The new and improved Broadway production, which opened in 2014, modernized the traditional show by adding in more humorous jokes and allowing Cinderella to involve herself more in the politics of the kingdom, rather than have her obsessed with simply finding a prince charming to live happily ever after.

Starring as the titular role is Hannah Mikita, a junior at WHS. This is her first lead role in one of WHS’s productions, but she has had an extensive background of music and theater for years prior. When asked about some of the difficulties she came across as a lead this year, Hannah said that, “It was kind of a shock at how much stuff I would have to learn in such a small amount of time.” She also noted that, “It was hard to find the balance between school work and practicing…but I managed to eventually get into the groove of it.” Hannah also commented on what she favors most about being a part of the production, stating that, “This entire process has been so inclusive…everyone’s so kind…[everyone] really gets along and [we’ve] really bonded as a cast.” Kindness is definitely the name of the game, as the advice that she gives to aspiring performers is to, “Treat everyone around you with kindness…you’re all part of one cast…and negativity breeds negativity.”

You don’t want to miss Hannah and the cast of Cinderella in what will surely be a showstopper! Performances are Friday, May 18 at 8pm, Saturday, May 19, at 7pm, and Sunday, May 20, at 3pm. Tickets will be sold in the cafeteria during lunch waves Monday through Friday, and will also be available at the door before each performance. Make sure to get your tickets early, as this is guaranteed to be a crowd pleaser for all ages. After all, if the shoe fits, wear it!