Houston Ballet took audiences on a captivating journey through an innovative retelling of the classic fairytale "Cinderella," put together by the esteemed Artistic Director Stanton Welch. This fresh adaptation, which deviates from the traditional narrative, introduces a Cinderella (portrayed by Mónica Gómez) who refuses to be a damsel in distress waiting for rescue. Instead, she seizes control of her destiny, steering the storyline into unexpected territory.

In this rendition, Cinderella's journey is anything but conventional. Refraining from the conventional tropes of needing a Prince or a fairy godmother to secure her happiness, Cinderella confronts her adversities head-on. With a cunning twist, Welch injects the character of Cinderella with bold resilience, captivating audiences with her determination to forge her own path.

The ballet features Cinderella's antagonistic stepfamily, featuring the malevolent stepmother played by Harper Watters, and stepsisters Grizabella (Nikita Baryshnikov) and Florinda (Eliveton Tomazi), who thwart Cinderella's aspirations at every turn. However, the storyline takes a surprising turn when Cinderella discovers the shallowness of the Prince (Jack Wolff), prompting her to seek her own unique form of fulfillment.

Welch's bold reimagination of this beloved tale has sparked diverse reactions among audiences. While some applaud the courage to overhaul a classic narrative, others question the necessity of altering a timeless story. Nonetheless, the production's audacity and creativity have garnered admiration from many, including this reviewer, who found it both courageous and intriguing.

One of the production's standout features is its accessibility, making it an ideal introduction to ballet for audiences of all ages. With two intermissions strategically placed between the three acts, patrons are treated to seamless transitions alongside impressive set and costume changes. Each act ranges from a breezy 36-42 minutes. From the humble abode of Cinderella to the palace's royal ball, each scene is brought to life with meticulous attention to detail.

A particularly mesmerizing moment occurs at the conclusion of Act I, where Cinderella encounters ghostly figures in a haunting graveyard sequence. The choreography and costumes of these beings captivate the audience, leaving a lasting impression.

Set to Prokofiev’s timeless score, with enchanting set and costume designs by Kristian Fredrikson, Welch's modern interpretation of "Cinderella" seamlessly blends tradition with contemporary 2024 ideologies. The result is a ballet that resonates with audiences of the 21st century while retaining the essence of the classic tale.

"Cinderella" will enchant the stage of the Houston Ballet through March 3rd, offering families an enchanting outing filled with wonder and delight. Tickets, ranging from $25 to $158, can be purchased at Houston Ballet's website. Don't miss the opportunity to experience this captivating production:

• Feb 24, 2024 | 01:30 PM
• Feb 24, 2024 | 07:30 PM
• Feb 25, 2024 | 02:00 PM
• Mar 02, 2024 | 01:30 PM
• Mar 02, 2024 | 07:30 PM
• Mar 03, 2024 | 02:00 PM

Whether you're a fan of the original tale or eager to embrace a new perspective, Houston Ballet's "Cinderella" promises a wonderful experience for all.