Kamloops School of the Arts junior drama production tells an alternative Cinderella story

How would the story of Cinderella be different if, more realistically, the famous glass slipper fit more than one fair maiden?

That’s exactly the twist that turns the classic tale of Cinderella on its head in this spring's junior drama production at Kamloops School of the Arts.

67 Cinderellas is set to premiere on March 14 with a 25-student cast starring Grade 8s and 9s, with additional students from the technical theatre class coordinating stage management, including the set, sound and lighting.

Drama teacher Katrina Melan said when all is said and done, these productions are nearly 100% led and run by students. They started casting in December and rehearsing in January. Tickets are now on sale.

“It’s a pretty big undertaking for these kids because they’re only 13 or 14 years old,” she said.

"I think when people get to come see these productions, they see theatre in that element and they really get to see what kids can do. They are working so hard."

The play stars Ben McBurnie as Prince Dalliance, Olivia Stella as Elise, the prince’s best friend, Olivia Jones as Cinderella, Bryanna Dryer as the evil stepmother and Samantha Weiss and Promise Dirkson as the evil stepsisters.

In this alternative tale of Cinderella, Prince Dalliance’s quest to find his lost love is thwarted when Cinderella’s slipper fits several young peasants. More ladies try on the shoe, and more ladies’ feet fit the shoe.

Multiple weddings almost happen, but Prince Dalliance’s determination doesn’t waver.

"It’s a tricky play because there’s quite often all 25 of them on stage, so they have to be really aware of what each person’s cue is and they need to be really fast with their cues," Melan said.

"I think people will be impressed with how professional it is, even at this age. It’s a lot of fun. It’s a good script and the kids really put their all into it."

67 Cinderellas is playing on March 14 at 10:30 a.m., March 15 at 7 p.m. and March 16 at 7 p.m. at Kamloops School of the Arts in the drama theatre, which seats about 100 people.

Tickets are $10 and available at the school office. Melan hopes to see the community come out and support some up-and-coming young talent. The senior drama production is up next.