OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Researchers who go back centuries have revealed that there are thousands of variants of the folk tale known as The Little Glass Slipper.

You won’t have to go that far to see the Ocala Civic Theatre’s (OCT) adaptation of the age-old tale about a young girl who lives in tough conditions but suddenly finds herself with incredible luck.

Taken straight from the Rodgers + Hammerstein play, the OCT invites you to enjoy an afternoon fill of magic, music, and memories with Cinderella. Tickets are available at the OCT box office, by calling 352.236.2274, or at their website.

States the OCT on its Facebook page, “In the glamorous 1950s kingdom of Hollywood, poor Ella is beautiful, charismatic, and full of hope. She’s also overworked and mistreated by her cruel stepmother and selfish stepsisters, stuck in her own little corner among the ashes. But then a royal ball is announced – to find a bride for the prince! And every eligible girl in Hollywood, from starlet to servant, is invited. Could Ella ever find her happily ever after? Nothing’s impossible when you have a fairy godmother on your side.”

OCT’s season opener begs you, “Don’t be late for the ball!” Tickets are priced at $35 for adults and $17 for those under 18, and the show runs through Sept. 22, 2024.

This performance showcases the skills of top professionals including director and choreographer Steven Flaa, music director Jason Bartosic, and more including:

  • Scenic & Projections Designer: Evan Frank
  • Costume Designer: Amanda Jones
  • Lighting Designer: Corey Whittemore
  • Sound Designer: Jazmine Whipple
  • Props Designer: Laura Bradford
  • Stage Manager: Greg Doss

OCT is also inviting visitors to “Come have a ball” at Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Tea Party Saturdays, Sept. 14 and 21, 2024, at 12 p.m.  This hour-long event is $15 for adults, and $14 for those ages 6-18.  Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the OCT says that the event is not for children under the age of 6.  There also is a maximum number of 60 guests for each party, so the OCT encourages you to purchase your tickets early online or at the box office.

The OCT shares that the tea party features sweet treats, apple juice boxes, fairytale souvenirs, and a visit and photo op with Cinderella and the Prince.

The performance and tea party are both at the Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd. in Ocala.