Leeds Arts Council Makes Magic
Sprinkles of fairy godmother dust, that notorious glass slipper and a bit of bibbidi-bobbidi-boo makes for the latest production at the Leeds Theatre and Arts Center.
This July the Leeds Arts Council (LAC) presents its summer show—Cinderella.
Opening Thursday, July 12 at 7 p.m. and running through Sunday, July 29, with Thursday, Friday and Saturday performances at 7 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m., LAC has incorporated surprises into its latest production.
Looking forward to playing Joy, one of the stepsisters, actress Angie McGowan is psyched to play a bad girl.
“I always play the sweet one,” said McGowan. “I’m excited to be a villain ‘cause that’s always fun.”
Nine-year-old Abri Mizell plays the kid sister in Cinderella. Mizell thinks the show is going to be a lot of fun.
“I’ve never been in a Cinderella play before,” said Mizell.
As far as calming her nerves every time the current calls for show time, Mizell says it’s simple—pretend like no one’s there.
Noelle Gunn playing Portia the stepsister says this is a special production.
“There’s a bunch of people in this play I haven’t worked with before. It’s exciting to see all these new people,” said Gunn.
“Part of the beauty of a big cast is it feels like a family. With that you know you have good support,” Gunn said.
Both Gunn and McGowan have known and worked with play director Cliff Keen Jr. for years. They both believe this Keen-directed play will leave audiences saying, “bravo.”
Starting rehearsals in May these actors have put in the time to learn lines, hit their marks and when the bright lights call for action on opening night, they’ll be ready.
“I’m excited about seeing it all come together,” said Natalie Valentine who plays the deceptive stepmother.
Adding that little something extra, ticket takers will have the opportunity to meet Cinderella, the Prince and her fairy godmother at 5 p.m. on each Saturday throughout the show’s run. Admission to the Saturday afternoon costume parties is $10. Pictures and wearing your best princess wear are encouraged.
As an added bonus, children arriving in costume will have their name placed in a drawing to win a Cinderella Barbie. Three dolls, in all, will be awarded. The drawings will be held each Sunday at play performances.
LAC board member and play chairwoman Sandi Nicholson can’t wait for opening night.
“I’m looking forward to a world of magic. That’s what Cinderella is all about.”
Reserve your seats today by calling 205-699-1892. Tickets are $10 with costume party tickets an additional $10.
Visit www.leedsartscouncil.org for details.