Cinderfella Produced by Ensemble Theatre

This Hip Hop musical reimagines the classic Cinderella story through the rhythm, poetry, and pulse of hip-hop culture. Set in and around the competitive world of August Wilson Performing & Visual Arts School, the story follows Dane, a gifted young dreamer living under the weight of a cruel stepfamily and a life that keeps trying to dim his light. When a royal hip-hop ball is announced by the powerful Daddy Hip Hop and his daughter, the Princess of the rap game, Dane is given the chance to rise, rhyme, and reveal who he truly is. With help from a magical fairy godfather, fresh style, and the power of his own voice, Dane steps into a world of music, movement, and destiny. Filled with dance, humor, heart, and high-energy performance, Cinderfella is a bold celebration of self-expression, resilience, and the magic of staying true to yourself. Inspired by Dana Dane’s 1985 song “Cinderfella,” the production uses the song as a recurring musical motif throughout the show, echoing its spirit and helping drive the story forward. The Ensemble Theatre, was founded in 1976 by the late George Hawkins to preserve African American artistic expression and enlighten, entertain and enrich a diverse community. Decades later, the theatre has evolved from a touring company operating from the trunk of Mr. Hawkins’ car to being one of Houston’s finest historical cultural institutions.