Cinderella – Stepping into the role of her dreams

Cinderella Story:

As Cinderella, Kogan Murphy is Stepping Into the Role of Her Dreams

[March 16, 2024]

Kogan Murphy, about to step into the title role of Cinderella in Erika Overturff’s world-premiere ballet, doesn’t try to hide her excitement.

To me, it’s the greatest thing ever!” she said. “Some dancers dream of being the Sugar Plum Fairy or Clara [in The Nutcracker] or Odette [in Swan Lake]. And of course, all of those are dream roles, iconic roles. But something about Cinderella feels so me!

When asked what it was like to learn of her casting, Kogan said, “It was like one of those Princess Diaries ‘Shut up!’ moments. I felt like I needed to sit down. I was floored. I was so surprised!”

Erika said that she had been picturing Kogan in the role for years. “In addition to being a beautiful dancer, she’s so nice and so kind,” she said. “And I’d always see her helping out in the costume shop with sewing or laundry, and would just smile to myself. She is a natural Cinderella!”

“In every step that I’m doing,” said Kogan, “whether it’s an acting moment or a dance moment, I’m trying to just lead with my heart. Erika’s choreography feels so good that it really seems magical. Yesterday we ran the pas de deux for the first time from start to finish, and I had these moments where I caught myself smiling because it truly felt so good.”

Kogan leads a dance activity during a “Cinderella storytime” appearance at Ralston’s Baright Public Library. Another storytime event is planned for April 13 at the Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center, sponsored by PACE. More info

The work she’s putting in – during rehearsals, in public appearances, and helping out in the costume shop with costume designer Deborah Overturff – is building Kogan’s enthusiasm for the finished production.

I think that this is going to be a really incredible version of Cinderella,” she said. “I feel like Debbie’s and Erika’s work together is building on each other, and they’re both inspiring each other.

“It’s going to be so much more than an ordinary ballet. There are so many different parts to it. I find out something new every day and I’m excited – I can’t wait to see all the parts together.

At the Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center, Council Bluffs: Currently sold out; contact the Hoff Center box office if you would like to be wait-listed.

  • Saturday, April 27 – 7:30 pm
  • Sunday, April 28 – 2 pm
  • Saturday, May 11 – 7:30 pm
  • Sunday, May 12 – 2 pm

© American Midwest Ballet. All rights reserved.

Top