“Bad Cinderella” is a bold retelling of the classic fairytale, blending traditional elements with modern twist to create a completely fresh and original experience. The play centers around Cinderella, a rebellious and defiant young woman who refuses to conform to the expectations of her cruel stepmother and stepsisters.
From the opening moments, it’s clear that this is not your typical fairytale adaptation. The set design is minimalist and stark, with harsh lighting and ominous music setting a foreboding tone. The costumes are similarly striking, with Cinderella dressed in ripped jeans and combat boots instead of a flowing ballgown.
Despite these departures from the norm, the play still manages to capture the heart and magic of the original story. The chemistry between Cinderella and her Prince Charming is electric, and their scenes together are some of the most tender and romantic moments in the play.
One of the standout performances comes from the actress playing the stepmother, who imbues her character with a complexity and depth not often seen in portrayals of the villainous figure. Her motivations are explored in detail, making her more than just a one-dimensional obstacle for Cinderella to overcome.
The play also tackles some weighty themes, including societal expectations of women and the dangers of toxic relationships. These issues are handled with nuance and sensitivity, making “Bad Cinderella” a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant piece of theatre.
Overall, “Bad Cinderella” is a triumph of storytelling and theatrical innovation. It takes risks and makes bold choices, resulting in a play that is both familiar and completely new. If you’re a fan of fairytale adaptations or just great theatre in general, this is a production you won’t want to miss.
I took my two girls to see it, ages 13 and 11, and our views on the show are very mixed. My oldest and I felt conflicted- while the show is exciting and all the attention to detail is impressive, the storyline left a lot to be desired. Whereas my 11-year-old theater kids absolutely loved the show and was impressed by the costumes, the music, and the overall vibe of the play.
You can get tickets for Bad Cinderella on Broadway here.