Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella resumes performances on Friday, August 22, at the historic Wayne Theatre in Waynesboro, Virginia. To learn more about the production, Waynesboro-based marketing firm Standout Arts spoke with cast member Collin Wheeler, who is part of the ensemble, the Sebastian understudy, and the giant in the fight choreography.

Wheeler is a familiar face at the Wayne Theatre, having appeared in fifteen different productions in roles ranging from leads to ensemble.

When asked what makes this production special, Wheeler said, “The thing that stands out most to me is how different it is from the classic Cinderella that people think of. But, at the same time, how true to the story it is. It keeps all the important plot points, and all the characters that everybody loves. But it adds just a little more magic. And some of the characters get an ending that you might not expect, but you find yourself rooting for them.”

One of Wheeler’s standout roles is the giant in the fight scene with Prince Topher. He explained how he brought the character to life. Determined to make Artistic Director Lesley Larsen’s vision a reality, Wheeler purchased stilts and taught himself to walk on them, later constructing a puppet around himself. The result was a nine-and-a-half-foot-tall giant. “The show is set mainly in the forest, and I wanted to try to incorporate the aspects of the forest into the giant, while staying true to the magical world,” Wheeler explained.

He praised the size and talent of the cast. With 56 people, this is one of the largest productions in the Wayne Theatre’s history. “A good portion of this cast is people who have never performed on this stage before. Of course, there are several people who have and who know the ropes. So, it’s a great mix of returning cast members with new ones. Everyone meshes well and we’re all learning from each other. And at just the second musical rehearsal we did, the overwhelming sound of 56 voices that all just locked in together - it’s incredible and it’s magical.”

Wheeler also spoke highly of the Wayne Theatre’s sense of community. “Lesley and Corey are amazing. And they’ve really cultivated a team around them. That also includes the production team and the actors themselves. They surround themselves with people who are passionate about the work, who care about what they do and who want to put on a good show for the community. And I think that really shows.”

Reflecting on the show’s impact, Wheeler said, “It is in the sense of the music as well as the practical effects that the show pulls off. Our set designer, Josh Donahue, has done incredible work, and the magic alone is going to have people with their jaws on the floor.”

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella runs August 22-24 with four performances over the course of weekend. Show times and tickets are available here.

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Character Photos for Promotional Purposes by Joshua Donohue | Director: Lesley Larsen | Music Director: Kat McClean

Asst Director: Jennifer L Jones | Choreographer: Corey Holmes | Set: Joshua Donohue

Lighting: Drew Thompson | Costumes: Corey Holmes | Makeup/Hair Design: Yvonne Woods

Props: Cleo Marcelline and Lesley Larsen