Greensburg Central Catholic music and drama teacher Joette Salandro said audiences shouldn't expect their "Cinderella," which will open tomorrow, to be like the Disney version.

"Cinderella won't be wearing a blue dress, and there will be no rodents," she said, referring to the animated mice in the Disney film.

The Rodgers and Hammerstein musical, first televised in 1957, tells the familiar story of a girl mistreated by her stepsisters and stepmother, but who hopes to go to the prince's ball.

Songs include "In My Own Little Corner" and "Do I Love You Because You're Beautiful?"

Despite the absence of mice, audiences can expect gorgeous voices, two different Cinderellas and inventive choreography, said Ms. Salandro, all against the backdrop of the Palace Theatre.

Ms. Salandro said she had such a difficult time choosing between Mia Parillo and Rachel Pierce for the role of Cinderella, she chose both. Mia will perform tomorrow, Rachel Saturday.

Both have a strong theater background, she said, adding that the actresses have a talented foil in Brendan Duffy, who plays the prince.

Ethan Bell and Elizabeth Dowling play the king and queen, Kelsey Sugrue plays the stepmother, and Angela Rokosz and Dana Hartung play the stepdaughters, Portia and Joy.

Ms. Salandro added that her students' talents don't stop at performance. Dance leaders Alexa Kluska and Richelle Palarino have contributed their original choreography to the show, while others have helped costume designer Pat Newman sew costumes.

"We have 12 kids hand-sewing hats," said Ms. Salandro.

In addition, the sound and lights will be handled by students, and stage manager Shawn Knepper "really calls the show," said Ms. Salandro.

With 82 students in the cast and crew, "this is very much a student production."

She said students also helped create the lavish food props for use during a banquet processional.

"Our prop crew made the roasted pig, the lobster, the caviar -- you name it."

Of course, the students can't do it all. Penn Township attorney Eric Barchiesi is musical director, while Hempfield Area High School physical education teacher Grace Caravaggio does choreography.

Ms. Salandro said besides all the talent, "Cinderella" can offer audiences, and students, the experience of the Palace Theatre. "It's a great opportunity for the students to perform here."

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