On Nov. 13, school students from throughout the area will audition at Bridgeport High School for a role in Missoula Children’s Theatre production of “Cinderella.” Staff from the Missoula, Montana-based theater company will oversee the audition process, a week of rehearsals and the Nov. 18 show.

 

As always, the MCT production is a children’s classic – with a creative twist. In this show, written by Jim Caron and with music by David W. Simmons, “Cinderella” is an adaptation of the fairy tale classic.

 

“A pumpkin coach, Prince Charming, a glass slipper and dream come true are woven together by the magic of a fairy godmother in this enchanting musical, said Bridgeport’s Michele Skaggs, who for several years has organized the local productions. “When Cinderella’s stepsisters try to keep her from attending the ball, the fairy godmother enlists the help of the mice and the pumpkins and is able to transform Cinderella just in time for the big event.”

 

But also featured in the MCT version are Cleo the cat, Fido the dog, lords and ladies, the town criers, the king and the beggars.

 

Auditions will take place 4-6 p.m. Nov. 13. Some cast members will be asked to stay for rehearsal immediately following additions, Skaggs said.

The following roles will be cat: Cinderellla, her two stepsisters, the stepmother, the fairy godmother, the king, the prince, Cleo the cat, Fido the dog, beggars, lords and ladies, mice and pumpkins. All students from kindergarten through 12^th grade are invited to audition.

“No advance preparation is necessary,” Skaggs said. “Assistant directors will also be cast to aid in rehearsals throughout the week and to take on essential backstage responsibilities.”

 

Missoula Children’s Theatre touring productions have become a longtime tradition in Bridgeport; the company bringing several children’s productions to Bridgeport. Last year, “Rapunzel” took the stage.

 

“The Missoula Children’s Theatre touring productions are complete with costumes, scenery, props and makeup,” Skaggs said.

MCT tour actor/directors conduct rehearsals throughout the week from 4 to 8:30 p.m. daily. Not all cast members are required to stay for every rehearsal, but should keep the week completely free. Cast members will not be excused from rehearsals to attend other practices, Skaggs said.

 

The Nov. 18 production of “Cinderella” will be presented at 2 and 7 p.m. at the BHS auditorium. Tickets are $10 and are available at the door. 

 

Editor's Note: Photos from last year's production of "Rapunzel" are by Julie Perine.