Hoquiam High School’s spring production, “Cinderella,” will sweep onto the 7th Street Theatre stage tonight for a four-day run.
“This production has been so much fun to direct,” said HHS drama director Patty Sundstrom. “One of my favorite things about directing high school drama productions is the level of buy-in from the students. They take ownership and pride in the production.”
That includes not just the actors, but also those working behind the scenes — or even on the scenery.
“The set builders have created a carriage and horses for Cinderella that are really beautiful,” she said. “I have a group of kids that have painted and decorated all of the sets.”
Rodgers & Hammerstein’s version of the classic fairy tale features Susanna Watkins in the title role. Watkins’ family returned to Hoquiam this year after living in Texas for two years, Sundstrom said.
There will be some new faces on stage as well.
“I have several seniors who decided to take the leap into the performing world,” said Sundstrom. “Prince Charming (Payton Quintanilla), for example, is normally found on the football or baseball fields, but this year he decided to try theater.”
And there’s one really interesting casting choice.
“After seeing a production of Cinderella at the 5th Avenue Theater where one of the stepsisters was played by a man, I decided to cast a boy in the role as well,” said Sundstrom. “Christian Gleeson and Candie Rivera will absolutely delight audiences.”
The curtain will rise at 7:30 p.m. tonight through Saturday, and at 2 p.m. Sunday.
Tickets are on sale at the high school, online by accessing the Hoquiam High School Website, or at the door. $8 for children and students, $12 for adults.
Photo by Patty Sundstrom Prince Charming (Payton Quintanilla) greets Cinderella (Susanna Watkins) at the ball.
Photo by Patty Sundstrom Susanna Watkins plays Cinderella.
