A timeless fairytale full of magic and whimsy is now on stage at Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre.
Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella,” a classic musical designed to be enjoyed by audiences of all ages — hence why it’s Beef and Boards’ 2026 Season Family Show. The Recorder switched things up a bit by sending the Outtara family (my family) out to see and review the show to determine whether it truly is timeless.
In short, it is.
Following a young woman forced into servitude by her wicked stepmother and stepsisters after her father’s death, “Cinderella” is a story about true love, humility and magic. Directed by Elizabeth Stark Payne and choreographed by Sally Scharbrough, “Cinderella” is on stage now through July 12.
Rodgers and Hammerstein first wrote their version of “Cinderella” for TV in 1957 with Julie Andrews in the lead, according to a press release. The show was lovingly re-created with Lesley Ann Warren in 1976 and again in 1997 with Brandy as Cinderella and Whitney Houston as her Fairy Godmother. The show didn’t open on Broadway until March 2013, closing soon after in 2015.
READ MORE: Q&A: Jenifer Lewis talks legacy, representation and Tiana’s Joyful Celebration
From the moment we arrived at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre, it was obvious that experience is about more than just the show. My sons — Adama, 14, and Djibril, 19 — and I attended a performance of “Cinderella” over the weekend and came away impressed not just by the show but also by the overall hospitality the Indianapolis-based dinner theatre company provides.
Before the curtain even rose, my kids raved on and on about the dinner service, noting the attentive staff who frequently checked on guests throughout the meal. Adama’s favorite item was the theater’s signature roast beef, while Djibril gave top marks to the seasoned french fries.
Once the show began, the brothers said they were captivated by the colorful costumes and detailed textures that brought the classic fairytale to life on stage. They also praised the production’s “magic” effects and strong performances from cast members such as Cinderella (Grace Ellis), the Fairy Godmother (Chanel Edwards-Frederick), and the Stepmother (Amanda Butterbaugh).
“The Fairy Godmother scene was one of our favorites,” they said, pointing to the combination of special effects and acting that made the moment memorable.
In addition to powerhouse vocals, brilliant effects and vibrant costumes, the cast also featured Carmine Mastrokastas as Prince Charming, Craig Underwood as the King and Karen Pappas as the Queen.
During intermission, the dessert offerings were another highlight. Both boys agreed that the turtle sundae was the standout treat of the evening.
As the story reached its conclusion, the audience was treated to an uplifting finale. For Adama and Djibril, the show’s most memorable moment came when the cast joined together to perform “Impossible,” the inspirational song that serves as the musical’s emotional centerpiece. Though if you’re like me, you remember Brandy’s rendition from the 1997 version.
Overall, Adama and Djibril described Beef & Boards’ production of “Cinderella” as a “fun and family-friendly experience,” making sure to mention the excellent food again, outstanding hospitality and the timeless magic a production of this magnitude can offer for children and families this summer.
“Cinderella” is rated G and sponsored in part by Indy’s Child. The musical is showing for 56 performances now through July 12 at Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre, Michigan Road. Tickets start at $64.50 (with a $5 fee) and children ages 3-15 get a $10 discount.
Each show features a buffet including the signature roast beef that my kids couldn’t stop talking about; drinks and desserts.
For more information, performance schedule or tickets, visit beefandboards.com or call the box office at 317-872-9664.
Chloe McGowan is the Arts & Culture Reporter for the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper. Originally from Columbus, OH, Chloe has a bachelor's in journalism from The Ohio State University. She is a former IndyStar Pulliam Fellow, and has previously worked for Indy Maven, The Lantern, and CityScene Media Group. In her free time, Chloe enjoys live theatre, reading, baking and keeping her plants alive.
