Heights Youth Theatre's 'Cinderella' showcases young actors

HYT's 2024 production of "Into the Woods" featured Cleveland Heights residents Abs Burkle and Olivia Bruening. [photo: Daren Stahl Photography]

Heights Youth Theatre (HYT) will present “Cinderella”—inspired by the 1997 teleplay starring Brandy and Whitney Houston—beginning Friday, May 16, at the Wiley building in University Heights.

The show’s cast comprises nearly 60 young actors in grades 1–12.

Director Eugene Sumlin, a Cleveland Heights resident, noted, “Over the years, this classic fairytale has had many variations and adaptations. . . . In our productions, we want to lean into the magic of the story, and real magic does not happen until you believe in yourself.”

The lead roles feature Lizzie Harbaugh as Cinderella and Machai Christopher as Prince Christopher. Stage manager Zach Nicol, along with assistant stage manager and Cleveland Heights resident Liam Zalevsky, will coordinate all the moving parts to bring the production to life. Stacy Bolton is the music director.

By attending an HYT performance, audiences support the theatrical arts in the Heights. HYT has been providing year-round opportunities for young people to develop their skills and entertain audiences for 70 years, creating a safe and nurturing environment for young artists to thrive.

Performances will be presented at Wiley auditorium, 2181 Miramar Blvd., on Fridays, May 16 and 23, 7 p.m.; Saturdays, May 17 and 24, 2 p.m., and Sunday, May 18, 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 for students/seniors, $15 for general admission, and $20 for priority seating in the first five rows.

The box office opens 45 minutes prior to each show; tickets also can be purchased online at www.heightsyouththeatre.com/tickets. For more information, and to support HYT, visit www.heightsyouththeatre.org. For group seating information or to celebrate a birthday at HYT, call 216-410-7500.