Ojai Valley News
Most young girls have a Cinderella fantasy, no matter if it’s a Disney version or a musical production. So it was for Denise Heller who stars in the title role at the Ojai Art Center Theater’s pantomime version, closing this weekend.
“Cinderella” runs through Dec. 16 at the Ojai Art Center Theater: two matinees, Saturday, Dec. 15, and Sun- day, Dec. 16, at 2 p.m., and two evening performances Friday, Dec. 14, and Saturday, Dec. 15, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets online only at OjaiACT.org. Do not try to call as the theater’s phone line is off.
Tickets are $20 for general admission; $18 for seniors; and $10 for those 25 and younger.
“As a young girl, I dreamed of playing Cinderella,” Heller said. “When Lesley Ann Warren starred in the Rodgers and Hammerstein TV musical production of ‘Cinderella,’ her image was forever imprinted in my little brain! Our version of the iconic Cinderella fairy tale is not traditional, other than the storyline itself, though it has been a joy and so much fun. As they say, ‘Better late than never!’
“What makes me happiest about being in ‘Cinderella’ was the constant laughter every day of rehearsal and now at each performance,” Heller continued. “Witnessing what each actor brings to his and her roles is hilarious.”
Heller can often be seen after the show outside the theater wearing her full costume and talking with children who have come to a performance. The magic of meeting Cinderella shines through each young face.
“I had never acted in a panto before ‘Cinderella,’” said Heller. “When Rick Kuhlman approached me, the ‘panto’ concept sparked my interest. He and I worked as actors in ‘MacBeth’ earlier in the year. I was really interested in working with him in a comedic capacity as he has such an extensive background in comedy both on stage as an actor, and as a director.”