Obscene, Crude, and Hilarious- Cinderella’s Stepsisters

A casting choice that may come to a shock in such a traditional world, since the 1948 ballet version of Cinderella men have danced as the Stepsisters. While this ballet is full of drama, there is always room for comedic relief. The men dance in a low heel, similar to a jazz shoe; challenging and a new beautiful technique are learned.

This may be something that most male dancers aren’t familiar with in their ballet repertoire. Luckily, Ballet Arizona’s Company dancer Serafin Castro has some experience learning roles that are traditionally on pointe for women. With his second-year practicing pointe, Castro said, “It’s another world. Being on point is completely different. It’s like learning ballet all over again, because everything is different. The way you need to use your technique, the way you use your legs, your muscles; everything’s different. I think the women have the hardest work to do, in this industry. My respect to all the women.”

With a role that may come off a little more theatrical, there is no room to shy away when performing. Throughout the years many dancers have focused more on the character, rather than technique. However, Ballet Arizona dancers are able to execute both.

You won’t want to miss Castro dancing alongside Luis Corrales as Cinderella’s wicked but hilarious Stepsisters!

Ballet Arizona’s “Cinderella“. Photo by Alexander Iziliaev.