Cinderella
Three stars
Elite Performing Arts Academy; Scottish Rite Cathedral;
Jan. 18-20

A streamlined version of Cinderella choreographed on the abilities of the aged 4-through-teens cast earned enthusiastic response from a capacity audience at the Jan. 20 matinee. Choreographer Zhanna Sinitsyna brought a strong sense of storytelling through mime here, as she did for Elite’s production of The Snow Queen last season. Equally pleasing was the sharpness of corps dancing throughout and character development by all dancers, from the first-time-on-stage tiniest tot to the more seasoned high school students. Laura Hockemeyer wove innate kindness and a longing to overcome her unhappy home life into a believable Cinderella. Bethany Monroe compelled as the Beggar Woman and sparkled as the Fairy Godmother.