Magical Transformations | Meet Encore’s Cinderella, Malena Davis

We’re looking forward to presenting the musical production of Cinderella in January. In this fairytale, Cinderella receives a magical transformation from her fairy godmother to go to the ball. Meet our very own Cinderella–Malena Davis, as she shares her Encore journey and transformation from once having stage fright, to now taking the lead in Cinderella.

Encore: What productions and programs have you been involved with Encore?

Malena: I have been in the cast for eight shows at Encore and I have been on tech for one (though I plan to do more in the near future). My first show with Encore was Charlotte’s Web; I played the old sheep. One of the main reasons I tried out was because my good friends Maddy and Laura W. convinced me to go with them (I used to have extreme stage fright!). Then over the summer I attended Encore’s Scenes for Teens camp, where I made a lot of friends and discovered how much I really enjoyed acting.

The next show I was in was The Hobbit (which is also one of my favorite books) and I played the role of an elfin guard. This play allowed me to realize how much I enjoyed playing characters with mean qualities. My third show was Big Bad (I played the reporter) followed by Sleeping Beauty. I played the False Princess, another evil role (this show had my favorite makeup!).

After that season came The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe where I was the majestic unicorn. That show really helped me develop how to play a non-human characters. My first musical at Encore was The Little Mermaid. I played Andrina (one of Ariel’s sisters) and a few other roles. This helped me utilize my talent for singing and dancing. My role in The Twelve Dancing Princesses, Imogen, is one of my favorites because I loved how sassy and independent she was. I finally worked on the technical crew in The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. I really enjoyed being the lighting person and working with the many talented crew members. Now I am working on Cinderella and I cannot wait to show everyone what an amazing show it is!

Encore: What was your first reaction when you received the role of Cinderella?

Malena: When I received the role of Cinderella I was ecstatic! As a child I loved Cinderella because she was positive even through the roughest times.

Encore: What you looking forward to the most in the show–is it the glass slippers, the magical pumpkin carriage or the happily-ever-after ending?

Malena: I am looking forward to Cinderella’s transformation, and all of my animal friends. Who doesn’t love a beautiful party dress?
Encore: Are you a fan of fairytales? If so, what’s your favorite fairytale story/princess and why?

Malena: Like most little girls, I love princesses! I love them most for overcoming adversity and of course getting the prince in the end. My favorite fairytales came from Aesop’s Fables and the Grimm stories. My favorite princess is probably Ariel because she really followed her heart to accomplish a goal.

Encore: What is your most memorable experience at Encore?

Malena: I have enjoyed making so many friends and working with talented directors and staff. They all really motivated me throughout the process.

Encore: What are some tips you can share to families about being in the audience?

Malena: Clapping and laughing highly motivates many actors and gives us energy. Girls dressing up as princesses are always especially adorable!

Encore: What skills have you learned from Encore, or what is the biggest take-away students can gain from their experience at Encore?

Malena: I have found Encore has helped me with speaking in front of people and making new friends. Encore has also helped me memorize things and work in a group to have a great finished product.

Encore: Will Cinderella make it to the ball and get her prince?

Malena: You will have to come and find out if Cinderella makes it to the ball and gets the Prince!

There you have it, come see Malena and our talented cast in Cinderella Tickets are on sale now. $12 for Adults; $10 for Children, Students, Military and Seniors.

(From left to right) Cate Davis, Maggie Keane, Liza Harold, Ellie Wilkie, & Malena Davis

Want to meet Cinderella at the Ball? Join us for Cinderella’s Ball on January 10th, featuring tea and treats, waltz lessons, make your own fairy godmother wands, and a chance to meet your favorite Cinderella characters! Tickets are $60; ticket includes admission for one adult and one child to the 11 am performance of Cinderella and the ball. Click here to purchase your tickets today!