Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella by: Brett Briggeman

The Hardin-Simmons University (HSU) Department of Theatre has been working hard this semester to bring us amazing theatrical performances.

Now, the theatre department proudly presents Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella. The show will be taking place on Nov. 6-8 and 14-15 at 7:30 p.m. and on Nov. 16 at 2 p.m.. Tickets are on sale now, and can be found through the link in their Instagram accounts bio, found at @hsutheatredept, or at https://buy.ticketstothecity.com/venue.php?org_id=595.

“I serve as the Stage Manager for Cinderella, helping coordinate communication between the cast, crew, designers and directors,” Tyler Boone, a theatre major with a business minor from Abilene, said. “I make sure rehearsals run smoothly, notes are distributed and everything stays organized behind the scenes.”

Boone has enjoyed the process of working on this musical and watching everything fall into place. He has also enjoyed the collaborative aspect of working on the show.

“My favorite part is watching all the creative pieces come together—from music and choreography to set and costume design,” Boone said. “It’s amazing to see everyone’s hard work merge into one cohesive story. Countless hours of collaboration, rehearsals and design work from both students and faculty have gone into this show. From set construction and costume fittings to choreography and music rehearsals, every department has poured their talent into making this show something truly special.”

This classic take on Cinderella takes place in the 16th century.

“Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella tells the beloved fairytale of a young woman whose kindness and courage transform her dreams into reality,” Boone said. “Set in a whimsical kingdom filled with charm, humor and heart, this production blends classic magic with a modern message of self-belief and compassion.”

Boone credits the cast and crew for the continued success in rehearsals and in preparation for the show.

“I’ve really enjoyed seeing the cast bond and grow throughout the rehearsal process,” Boone said. “Everyone brings so much passion and positivity—it’s created such a strong sense of teamwork and excitement each night. This show is truly a group effort. Every person involved, onstage and off, has contributed something meaningful. We can’t wait for audiences to experience the magic we’ve been building together.” 

“My favorite part about my role is being able to bring some people’s favorite princess to life and create a character that younger girls can look up to,” Hannah Albin, a junior worship leadership major from Mansfield, and Cinderella, said. “I have enjoyed getting to work with my cast mates and the friendship that comes from spending so much time together.”

“I have enjoyed watching it all come together slowly as we continue to work,” Colton Bosang, a senior musical theatre major from Waco, said. “I’ve enjoyed watching everyone develop their character, the set continuing to be built and the music growing in quality.” Bosang plays the role of Prince Topher, the counterpart to Albin’s Cinderella. 

Bosang also credits the build up to the show as being an enjoyable process, allowing for him to better know the people around him.

“There have been lots of rehearsals for blocking, singing, as well as dancing,” Bosang said.  ‘Lots of people, including myself, are working on the set to make the fairytale come to life. My favorite part is all the waltzing and dancing I get to do.”

Be sure to come out and support the HSU theatre department as it brings this story to life for two weekends. Tickets can be found from the HSU theatre department Instagram, or at https://buy.ticketstothecity.com/venue.php?org_id=595.