Book, Music and Lyrics by Gerry Cullity
Adapted from the tale by the Brothers Grimm
Directed by Laurie Cullity

Looking for a magical production? The slipper fits with this original musical version of the well-loved fairy tale, performed by young actors. Creator Gerry Cullity put a ragtime spin on the timeless story of a long-suffering step-sister, a choosy prince and a glass slipper. Set in turn-of-last-century New York City during the height of immigration, Cullity's delightful characters are those coming from the New World , with the Cinderella-type challenges of starting a new life in a foreign land. Themes of love and achieving our heart's desire against all odds are woven through this charming rags-to-riches tale that features memorable Cullity songs like Smile Check and This Place Is Magic .

Gerry Cullity (1953-2005) was the original co-founder and artistic director of Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre . His "Cinderella" is one of 22 original musicals or musical adaptations that he created for the stage. In a previous interview, Cullity talked about his love for this musical: "I've always loved the lazy, 'off-beatness' which characterizes ragtime music. Ragtime, which gave birth to Jazz, represents a fascinating slice of musical history. And the story of Cinderella, considered the oldest fairy tale and one that has translated to every culture, country and language seemed a natural fit to this style of music." He added: "It's a little snapshot of American history-and an interesting one. And young people love taking what they know-the story of Cinderella-and seeing it from a fresh angle-or a 'rag' angle in this case."

Cullity's "Cinderella" has a special place in the hearts of Desert Stages actors, families and audience members. This fairy tale musical marked a new chapter in Desert Stages' history by being the inaugural production in our new downtown Scottsdale theatre location in May, 2004.

Arizona Republic Theatre Critic Kyle Lawson , who joined Desert Stages for our new venue's opening, said: " It's clear that Gerry Cullity, Desert Stages' founder and artistic director, knows how to write a musical. Adults will find much to laugh about in his witty dialogue. His songs, especially Cinderella's pick-me-upper, Every Smile , are as pretty as any heard on a local stage this season. ( May 26, 2004 ),"

Memories of this musical are guaranteed to last beyond the stroke of midnight .