What theatre production will satisfy your Disney princess fix, yet carry a message of female strength and dignity throughout? Why, “Disenchanted,” of course, performed over three nights at the Alumnae Auditorium. This off-Broadway hit, brought to the Judson stage in a special adaptation sure to bring pleasure to any viewer, featured an ensemble of nine talented Judson students bringing everyone’s favorite princesses to life. The story revealed the reality hiding behind the magic of classic fairy tales, including Rapunzel’s German origins, the impertinence of Sleeping Beauty’s prince kissing her while she slept, and Belle having a beastlike creature for a husband. Each princess had a musical number telling her grievances during a musical theatre production-the fourth wall was all but non-existent throughout the performance. The music ranged in variety from Sleeping Beauty’s inspirational tune “Perfect,” to the Little Mermaid’s country ballad “Two Legs,” to the audience participation piece led by Rapunzel, “Not One Red Cent.” Each princess was characterized with loving care, from the mirth and whimsy of Jordan Ross’ Cinderella, the charm of Karina Griniage’s Princess Who Kissed the Frog, and the dry humor of Cheyann McDaniel’s Princess Badroulbadour. Holding the play together was the strong personality of the Disney princess matriarch Snow White, played by Sarah Green. As funny and inspiring as each princess was on her own, however, the performance was strongest when they all supported each other and sang as a group. The closing numbers in particular were powerful and left an impact on the audience. On the whole, this was a wildly entertaining performance that will live on in the memories of Judson girls for years to come.
