What if, in your darkest moment, your entire life got flipped upside down because of a poorly fitted choice of footwear?

Such is the fate of Ella, also known as Cinderella.

The Rodgers and Hammerstein version of this classic tale may not be the most well-known version, but this musical marks its first adaptation to the stage. Originally written in 1957 as part of a larger push to adapt stageworks for television audiences, it had two subsequent big-screen appearances in 1965 and 1997. It also carries on as a Broadway staple, but as for its appearance in Lincoln County, this will be the first time an adult cast has put it on stage.

Months of effort have been put towards this performance, with the cast and crew doing their very best to be ready by opening night. Lines are being memorized, the stage is being prepared and the anticipation for what’s to come is building like a clock ticking towards midnight. From beautiful backgrounds to billowing gowns, the proclamation that “The prince is giving a ball” is becoming more and more of a reality. 

The event is being put on by a group of local actors who have been in plays such as “My Fair Lady” and “Beauty and the Beast.” This group of thespians is led by Natalie Wadsworth, who has expressed her admiration for the performing arts and her gratitude to the community for all the time and effort that has been dedicated to their shows.

So, when July 16 through 19 rolls around, come join the celebration at Neldon C. Mathews Auditorium. Doors open at 7 p.m. As a certain lizard-turned-footman says in the play, “Enjoy it while it lasts.”