DeSales Universitys Act 1 delivers a joyful and lovely production of "Rodgers and Hammersteins Cinderella" through Dec. 9 on the Main Stage Theatre, Labuda Center for the Performing Arts, DeSales University, 2755 Station Avenue, Center Valley. Act 1s holiday show is a feast for the eyes and ears.
In this humorous and modern update to the traditional story, a spirited Cinderella has more agency and a thoughtful Prince Topher is attracted as much by Cinderelllas caring personality as by her appearance.
Rosie Dunphy is delightful as a warm and compassionate Cinderella. She radiates an optimism that infuses the musical. She is charming and confident on familiar songs like "In My Own Little Corner" and radiates joy on "A Lovely Night." 
Ryan Plunketts Prince Topher is not your typical prince and Plunkett brings a touch of awkwardness and likable fortitude to the role. He has a pleasing voice on "Do I Love You Because Youre Beautiful" and his and Dunphys "Ten Minutes Ago" is a highlight, particularly with the lush choreography by Stephen Casey and sumptuous costumes by Sam Fleming against Eric T. Haugens evocative backgrounds.
Grace Curry has a powerful voice as Marie, the beggar woman turned fairy godmother. Currys godmother is enjoyably goofy and shines on the delightful "Impossible/Its Possible" and the empowering "Theres Music in You."
As Cinderellas stepmother, Abigale Townsend is a force to be reckoned with as she flounces about stage, throwing sarcastic jibes at Cinderella.
CaSandra Kay is wicked fun as self-centered stepsister Charlotte. Her "Stepsisters Lament" backed by the other rejected eligible ladies is a hoot.
A the "nice" stepsister Gabrielle, Isabella Lucano is spunky and appealing.
Christian Tuffy gives Sebastian, the princes evilly ambitious prime minister an oily, simpering quality that is very funny.
Tyler Borneos revolutionary Jean Michel is a welcome addition, giving the proceedings a bit of gravity. Borneos Jean Michel is resolute and passionate. The competition between Jean Michel and
Giovanni Marinis Lord Pinkleton on "The Prince is Giving a Ball" and "Now Is the Time" is especially well done.
Amanda Pasquinis direction is spot-on with smooth transitions and brisk pacing.
The orchestra conducted by Paul Hsun-Ling provides the perfect backdrop for the talented singers.
Kudos also to Fleming for the amazing on stage costume transformations.
There are talk back performances with the cast Dec. 3 and 4 following the performance.
The performance at 2 p.m. Dec. 2 will feature open captioning for patrons who are deaf or hard of hearing and audio descriptions for patrons who are blind or visually impaired. Tickets are half price for patrons using these special services on this date. Call Box Office Manager Eric Pierson at 610-282-3654, ext. 1, for more information.
Performances are 7:30 p.m. Nov. 29, 30, Dec. 1, 6, 7, 8 and 9; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2; 2 p.m. Dec. 3 and 10; and 9:45 a.m. Dec. 4.
Tickets are $30 for adults and $28 for students and seniors Monday through Thursday; and $34 for adults and $32 for students and seniors Friday through Sunday,
For information, call 610-282-3192 or go to www.desales.edu.