This adaptation of the world's most popular fairy tale gives dimension to the characters and offers a chance for spectacle as well.
After the death of a young girl's mother, her situation becomes desperate as her home is transformed by a selfish stepfamily. The girl's courage and happiness are restored by a faithful white bird, a sensitive prince and a father who finally finds his courage. The French version is better known in America, but this German telling includes more of the inner turmoil as the classic battered child finds self-esteem through love.
While the play may be successfully produced without the songs, several musical themes provide additional opportunity to elevate the production to high theatricality. The script contains instructions for producers desiring to produce it as a nonmusical.