By Peri Kinder | [email protected]

Fans of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “Cinderella” will love the Herriman Arts Council production of the hit musical. Along with Cinderella, Prince Charming, the fairy godmother and the wicked stepmother and stepsisters, this summer’s musical incorporates some inventive and surprising elements. 

“The special thing about this production is we are flying in it,” said Kristin Housley, the show’s director. “You’ll get to see Cinderella and the Fairy Godmother flying and we have an 8-year-old girl that will also fly.”

Inspired by the acclaimed 1997 television movie starring Brandy and Whitney Houston, this version of “Cinderella” is full of originality, beauty and elegance, with an updated message.

“Yes, Cinderella needs Prince Charming, but what we’re trying to portray is that the prince also needs Cinderella,” Housley said. “In this day and age, I don’t think it’s politically responsible to tell the story that a woman needs a man, but a man doesn’t need a woman. We emphasize that both of them needed each other and found each other magically.”

During scene changes, the house lights won’t be turned off. Instead, ballerinas will dance during the transitions, entertaining the audience through each set move. The ballerinas are fairies or spirits, acting as an extension of the fairy godmother.

“This is my favorite version,” Housley said. “Bring the family because it will be a really beautiful night.”

Tickets are available for $10 on the Herriman City website. The production will be held at W&M Butterfield Park, Rosecrest Pavilion (6212 W. Butterfield Park Way) on July 7-18, with performances every night except Sunday. The show starts at 8 p.m.