About Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella

Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella is a musical written for television, with music by Richard Rodgers and lyrics/book by Oscar Hammerstein II. Originally broadcast in 1957 starring Julie Andrews, it was remade by Disney and ABC Television in 1997. The movie tells a timeless classic in an accessible format, featuring an ethnically diverse, All-American cast. The plot centers around Cindy, a kind-hearted girl suffering under her wicked stepmother and stepsisters, who is given the chance to attend a royal ball and falls for the Prince.

Making / Production

The movie is a remake of a classic tale, with multicultural casting as a highlight. It starred famous singer Whitney Houston who also served as an executive producer. The movie aimed to offer a fresh take on a beloved story, bringing it to a new audience and providing a 90s spin on the traditional Cinderella.

Actors

• Brandy Norwood played Cinderella. She brought a fresh face and warm presence to the role, and her musical talent shines throughout.
• Whitney Houston shined in her role as Fairy Godmother. Aside from superb singing, her portrayal added a touch of magical charm to the movie.
• Whoopi Goldberg played the role of Queen Constantina, adding humor and gravitas to her scenes.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This version of Cinderella was notable for its "color-blind" casting, with a diverse range of racial and ethnic actors filling the roles.
• Over 60 million viewers watched the premiere in 1997.
• This was the first major musical collaboration between Whitney Houston and the production company Disney.

Awards

The movie received an Emmy award for Outstanding Art Direction for a Variety or Music Program.

Quotes

• "Impossible things are happening every day." - Fairy Godmother, expressing the theme of the movie.
• "The sweetest sounds I'll ever hear are still inside my head." - Cinderella, dreaming of a better life.

Music, Soundtrack

• "Impossible" - A duet between Cinderella and her Fairy Godmother
• "The Sweetest Sounds" - Cinderella's solo, singing of her dreams
• "Stepsister's Lament" - A humorous number from the stepsisters