Comedy Theatre For All Ages
Critically-acclaimed writer/performer
Michael McMurtry has had two one-man
shows produced for television and his
short films have aired on The Comedy
Network and CBC. And he was a regular
on CityTV’s “Godivas” for which he
received a Gemini nomination.
Recently, his All-Ages comedy
“Happyview P.S.” was a critical
and audience hit.
Currently, Michael is
wowing young audiences
with his new show “Cinderfella”
a delightful retelling of
the popular Cinderella
tale… with a twist.
“A provocative way to get
the students to rethink
fairy tales. Michael’s
humour and audience
participation was
thoroughly entertaining.”
(Vice-Principal,
Bishop Strachan School)
“Great fun! McMurtry draws
his young audience in, and
holds them entranced”
(The Toronto Star)
“Michael's improvisation of
characters kept the whole gym
enthralled… A great show for
Primary and Junior kids!”
(Vice Principal
King Edward PS)
"The boys were sitting
on the edge of their
seats-fully engaged
in this lively and
entertaining show…
It was delightful to see
their imaginations
at work"
(Teacher, UCC)
A hilarious twist on a classic tale!
When his mother dies, Cinderfella becomes a helpless
servant to his wicked step-mother and her two horrible sons.
But his determination to stay positive in the face of misery ensures
that his greatest dreams will come true. Yes, this is the beloved fairy tale classic…
like you’ve never seen it before. From our deeply sincere hero to the outrageously
silly Royal Knight, McMurtry enthrals the kids with a high-speed parade of hilarious
characters. And while there’s plenty of crowd-pleasing comedy, magic, singing, dancing
and audience participation, at the core, Cinderfella is a heart-felt tale with crucial life lessons
about courage, kindness and perserverence. An unforgettable theatrical event.
“The versatile McMurtry cultivates an interactive dialogue with the children in the front rows
and displays improvisational finesse, maintaining laughs and interest throughout.” (EYEWEEKLY Magazine)
“An exhilarating one man play that celebrates what’s important in our world” (Vice-Principal, Roden PS)
“An ‘assembly’ of talent! McMurtry is a nimble clown... Lots of fun!” (NOW Magazine)
“Great fun for students AND staff!” (Principal, Clinton Street P.S.)
"An action-packed and humorous show, highly recommended
for a grade 1-6 audience. Michael is an energetic performer
with an amazing stage presence"
(Headmaster, UCC)
“Entertaining, engaging and very interactive. The play reached out to the entire
student audience ranging from grade 1 to 6. A great complement to the curriculum!”
(Principal, Ossington/Old Orchard P.S.)
CURRICULUM FOCUS AND EXPECTATIONS
Character Education:
Empathy, honesty, optimism, integrity, self-discipline, responsibility,
humility
Expectations:
- Express personal responses and make connections to characters, themes, issues presented in play
- Recognize and name characteristics of drama performances that incorporate various elements of theatre (fairy tales, one-person show, storytelling, the art of comedy)
- Explain, using drama terms, how elements of drama are used to produce effects and audience response
- Develop, share and justify an informed point of view about the play
- Recognize their own talents, strengths, competencies, and accomplishments
Themes
Taking responsibility for one’s action; identifying strenghths and weaknesses of character
DETAILS
Run time: 45 minutes (approx.)
Appropriate for Grades 1-8
Optional Q&A after the show
Study Guide available
TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Large open area (school gymnasium ideal)
Access to power outlet
Price: $500 (HST included)