Just got word that my director is looking at doing cinderella-

any pieces of advice for how complicated or easy it is?

I'm thinking it'll be an easy show?

I've directed two different produtions of Rogers and
Hammerstein's "Cinderella" ... and, though musical faery tales
are not my personal favorite genre, I had a lot of fun.

I should state, LOL, I don't think ANY play is easy. There are the
same challenges (characterization and development, plot
advancement, pacing, etc.) in every play - and a musical just
adds singing, dancing and a bazillion sets to the mix.

For me, the biggest challenge in "Cinderella" was to keep
Cinderella spunky and vibrant, as well as the Prince, the
Godmother, and the King and Queen. It's easy to let the
Stepmother and Stepsisters have all the clout - but, frankly,
they're not onstage that much - and if everybody else is wishy-
washy and colorless when compared to them, the overall effect
of the play is greatly diminished.

As far as stagecraft, let's face it, LOL, there is magic in this play.
So you have to be ready to address all the magical
transformations. They're not the most difficult ever seen on a
stage - but, nonetheless, some 'stage tricks' background is
helpful! If you use the Rogers and Hammerstein version, the
script is immensely helpful with those transitions.

The choreography isn't that involved. There are only a couple
large choral numbers. We had fun with the "In My Own Little
Corner" number - as Cinderella sang about her 'dreams,' they
came to life behind a scrim and doubles of Cinderella danced
the stories. It was a great way to utilize the ballet dancers, who
don't have much else to do in this play.

Have fun with it - and enjoy the challenges of the piece, rather
than be frightened of them. Those are the places, whether you
are acting, directing, or designing, that will be the most
rewarding once you have conquered them!