Describing the show "Cinderella: Youth Edition," a Children's Workshop Production coming to Susquehanna Stage, cast member Caroline Weber sums it up like this: "It's a heartwarming show for the whole family, filled with fun songs, dancing and characters. The audience will see a classic story filled with love and laughter."

Caroline, a ninth-grader who lives in the Hempfield area and attends Lancaster Catholic High School, plays Stepmother in the show and joins a cast of students who will present the musical on select dates from Friday, Sept. 12, through Saturday, Sept. 20.

The show features the familiar characters and story from the classic fairy tale.

" 'Cinderella' is the magical story of a kind girl who dreams of a better life," Caroline said. "Even though her stepmother and stepsisters aren't very nice to her, Cinderella never gives up hope. With the help of her Fairy Godmother, a pumpkin and a little sparkle, she discovers that dreams really can come true."

Linnaea Doty, an eighth-grader at Manheim Central Middle School, portrays the title character. She's looking forward to presenting the show to audiences.

"This show is such a fun and exciting time," Linnaea shared. "The cast are all so talented, and they fit their roles perfectly. The choreography and blocking are amazing. The set looks great, and this show is such a magical time. It's something that you should definitely come see."

She noted that the best part of being in the cast has been hanging out with new friends and watching the progress the group has made from the first rehearsal until almost showtime.

And although it's a fun show to watch and perform in, that also presents a bit of a problem at times, she said.

"The most challenging part of the show for me is not laughing during the show," she explained. "This musical is so insanely funny that it's really hard not to laugh at some points."

For Caroline, playing a villain is a new experience, but she's embraced it fully.

"The most fun part about playing the Stepmother is that she's so over the top!" she said. "You get to be dramatic, bossy and a little bit silly - all while making the audience laugh. She's such a big character that you can really play with her voice, her expressions and her attitude."

Sam Short, a ninth-grader at Kennard-Dale High School who portrays Prince Christopher, said the show offers entertainment for both kids and adults.

"This is a show that a lot of people can relate to and understand because it is a classic story with some humor also," he said. "Some of the funniest parts of the show for my role are when the stepsisters and other maidens are trying to fight for the prince's attention. ... You can expect a lot of great music and costumes, and a little magic too. Each character has something unique to offer. The cast has worked really hard to put the show together, and we can't wait to perform for an audience."

Playing the prince has presented a challenge to Sam, but it's one he's tackled willingly as he's tried to match the prince's emotions with the scene's action.

"In one scene I am acting confident, strong and royal, but then in another scene I am to be more soft, kind and charming," he said.

For Brodie Kennedy, a Hempfield High School ninth-grader who plays the Herald, the show has presented a different kind of challenge. His biggest obstacle? "Learning to do the waltz!" he said.

Like his peers, he's proud of the production and excited to share the cast's hard work.

"(This is) a timeless story with great music, fun characters, dancing and group of talented kids that are sure to make you smile," he said. "Come see how Susquehanna Stage takes on the show in a fantastic direction!"

"Cinderella: Youth Edition" will be performed at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, Sept. 12, 13, 19 and 20, and at 2 p.m. on Sept. 13 and 20 and Sunday, Sept. 14. Susquehanna Stage is located at 133 W. Market St., Marietta. For more information, visit http://www.susquehannastage.com.