The Magic of Cinderella

The Cinderella musical was magical! It was a high school production, but the quality was so much higher than high school! So much time, effort, and talent went into pulling off such a huge event. I am still in awe of the hours of love and labor that went into every aspect of making the magic. What a beautiful opportunity it was to watch it, and my children absolutely loved being a part of something so wonderful! I cannot say thank you enough to all who helped put such a special show together! 

We were in Disneyland when we heard the news of what musical the school would be putting on. Upon hearing the news, Sammi immediately took pictures of all things that had to do with Cinderella, throughout the park. With pixie dust tangibly floating in the air, she had one wish, and that wish was to play Cinderella! 

It seems as though she must have wished on the right star there, in the Magic Kingdom, because her wish came true! She worked so hard to prepare for tryouts, including memorizing all the lyrics. She had her fears and doubts, along with her hope and faith. She wanted it so desperately. The moment that the cast list came out with her name next to Cinderella, she was overcome with emotion, and she shrieked with heavenly joy! 

Both Sammi and Daniel were gone quite a bit during the rehearsal time. Daniel was asked to help in the cast, despite being a sophomore, because they needed more guys. (There are never enough guys, right?) He loved being a part of all of it, and he went almost every Saturday to help with set build, and to offer help as he could. He looks forward to a chance in the musical next year. (The musical cast was from the junior and senior choir, Encore.) They both just had so much fun! And they were so happy to participate. 

The Cinderella storyline was so good, and pure. It was all about love and kindness, despite all odds. I am so grateful Sammi was able to easily delve into her character, without having to go into uncomfortable acting space. She had to focus on being loving and kind! It made her time practicing at home very pleasant! I just loved watching every moment of her joy as she went into princess-mode. It was such a lovely time for our family, as we all enjoyed the light-hearted and sweet space that the music of Cinderella created. 

We had family members come and watch from Utah, and Alaska. I will write more about how awesome that was in another post. But the musical had such a huge impact on some of my family that came. One of my nieces -- who did not like to sing -- started singing and dancing with joy because of it! Watching her sing and dance to the music from the play, was one of the sweetest videos I have ever seen! The musical was more important than just entertainment. In some ways, it changed lives! I am sure many children (and adults) were inspired by the magic and the music! 

One of the hard things about being part of a beautiful production, is that it ends. For the last week, Sammi has been a little melancholy, she has been suffering from intense Cinderella-withdrawl. She got to dance at a ball, sing to woodland creatures, wear a beautiful tiara and glorious gowns, and glass slippers! Now she is back to "normal" life, and it is hard to make such an adjustment from magic to the mundane. She will find her sparkle again, but it really is so hard to let go of something so wonderful. What an amazing experience she had! She will remember it ALWAYS! 

The magic of Cinderella will always claim a piece of her heart. 

Here are some pictures from the show (the dress rehearsals). Some were taken by me, and some by another photographer...

The tiara was worn by the Cinderella on Broadway!

The ballgown dress transformation was so amazing! A mom from our Church made it! It took my breath away every time! 

It went from this... 

 To this! WOW!!!!

 This is perhaps one of my FAVORITE pictures!

 My princess holding a pumpkin! Oh how I love it!

Daniel loved being a part of it!

Sammi had to do a lot of kissing! That was fun to watch! ;)

They were going to use this wig, but changed it for the show. The first time I saw Sammi like this, I almost didn't recognize her!

I love that Daniel is right by Sammi. :) And the shoe fit!

Watching Sammi come out in a beautiful wedding dress made my heart burst!

The white ballgown made her look like an angel!

It was a dream come true for Sammi! At home Sammi often wears basketball shorts and T-shirts. For me watching her walk around in a beautiful white dress, with a crown adorning her head, made me feel like I was seeing her as she truly is; she is and always will be a princess!