Ovations Repertory Brings Cinderella Ballet to Tampa

Ovations Repertory Company is set to enchant local audiences with a fresh staging of the classic ballet Cinderella at Sickles High School. The production features a vibrant cast of young performers who are learning to bring the story to life through both movement and character, infusing the stage with energy and discipline.

The show is directed by Orlando Pena, who views the ballet as a perfect fit for Ovations’ mission to broaden dancers’ and audiences’ exposure to diverse artistic styles. While many may recognize Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker or associate Cinderella solely with the Disney adaptation, this production introduces Sergei Prokofiev’s music, blending tradition with innovation. Pena notes that the dancers quickly adapted to the new choreography and are building a solid technical foundation as they immerse themselves in the narrative.

Pena emphasizes the importance of combining technique and storytelling, stating, “Dancers are also actors. You must feel to dance. It’s all one, and that is how we approach it.” He finds it rewarding to watch the cast evolve, noting their growing passion for ballet and their commitment to discipline.

Grace Crithfield, who plays Cinderella in Cast A, describes her excitement at landing the role. “I was very excited and screamed, then texted all my friends,” she says. Grace has developed a personal connection to the choreography, especially enjoying the broom dance for its blend of classical style and emotion. Guided by her mother and teachers, she aims to portray Cinderella as both gentle and strong, and values the teamwork that shapes the production. She hopes young audience members will appreciate the beauty of ballet, live music, and the joy she brings to the stage.

With a dedicated creative team and a cast that is rediscovering the familiar fairytale, Ovations Repertory Company promises a ballet where each moment is shaped by Prokofiev’s score and the dancers’ growing artistry. Pena adds, “At the heart of every performance is the connection we forge through movement, music, and storytelling.”

Cinderella will be performed on May 23 at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. at Sickles High School. Learn more and purchase tickets at https://our.show/4qet1a794v.