Magic at midnight
Dean Murphy, who is directing the production alongside Pip Mushin, said the inspiration behind Midnight is ensuring the Cinderella story speaks to the children and parents of today
Everyone knows the story of Cinderella. But do you know the story of Ella?
Midnight – The Cinderella Musical, a brand-new Australian musical debuting in Melbourne in June, is a magical comedy that is perfect to take the kids to. It’s loosely inspired by the story of Cinderella but brought into the 21st century.
Ella is a feisty, funny and passionate young woman who doesn’t want, or need, a Prince Charming. The prince, enchanted by this alluring stranger, suddenly finds himself in uncharted territory and quickly learns that Ella is like no other. Can he prove his worth? Can she ignite his desire for change? Can all be achieved before the magical stroke of midnight?
With music and lyrics by Jewish musical director, event director, pianist and composer, John Foreman and Anthony Costanzo, Midnight stars a number of popular Aussie musical favourites including Shane Jacobson and Lucy Durack, and features a live orchestra.
And while it’s based on the story of Cinderella, don’t be fooled into thinking it’s about a damsel in distress.
Dean Murphy, who is directing the production alongside Pip Mushin, said the inspiration behind Midnight is ensuring the Cinderella story speaks to the children (and parents) of today.
“The inspiration for Midnight is born of the desire to create a fully formed, funny, complex heroine for a new generation and to create the definitive musical version of this magical, evergreen tale,” Murphy explained.
“The Cinderella story has been retold for hundreds of years, with the most widely known version written in 1950 and reflecting the sensibilities of that era. So, a number of our team with young children felt it was time the world of Cinderella was freshly revisited to explore how this intriguing girl became an icon, but told through a new, empowering story that sees this force of nature fight for great change while still embracing the magic from those around her.”
On the back of his performance as Edna Turnblad in Hairspray, Jacobson will be playing the king, explaining that he loves the way Midnight frames the story of Cinderella, especially as he has his own daughter to consider.
“It’s not a girl waiting for some prince to come down and save her. He’s got to prove his worth and it’s the Cinderella story told in a way that has never been seen before,” he said.
While billed as an all-ages affair, Midnight recently announced kids’ week in July, where all kids aged 16 and under can attend a special performance when accompanied by a full-paying adult. Audiences will be given a special behind-the-scenes preview of what really happens to make a major musical come to life on stage.
Midnight – The Cinderella Musical opens on June 23. For tickets, visit midnightmusical.com.au
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