For the first time ever, Julie Andrews's performance in the title role of the original 1957 television production of Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella is available to the public on home video. Cinderella was created as a Broadway-style television production with an original score from the creators of Oklahoma! and Carousel, featuring such songs as "In My Own Little Corner," "Impossible," "Do I Love You Because You're Beautiful," and "Stepsisters' Lament." Cast in the title role was the 21-year-old Andrews, at the time starring on Broadway in My Fair Lady (another Cinderella story of sorts), and the cast was filled out by a talented bunch of stage veterans (including Kaye Ballard, Edie Adams, Dorothy Stickney, and Stickney's husband, writer Howard Lindsay). On March 31, 1957, a then-record 120 million homes saw the program as it was broadcast, live and in color, but it was preserved only in black-and-white kinescope, i.e., by aiming a camera at a monitor during the broadcast. While this version probably looks better than we have any right to expect, the picture is still fuzzy black-and-white, which makes it a tougher sell for kids than the later color versions, 1965 with Lesley Anne Warren and the 1997 Disneyized version. But give older kids (say, 8 or so) credit for being able to look past the black-and-white picture and primitive effects and enjoy the charming songs, the excellent performances, and the prospect of seeing one of their favorite actresses play one of their favorite princesses. It's also available on DVD with numerous bonus features. --David Horiuchi

Customer Rating:
Summary: Watch it for Julie!
Comment: How can anyone not love Julie Andrews? While the 1964 version with Leslie Ann Warren is by far the best version, this rare treat from 1957 is a must-see for anyone who loves the theatre, Cinderella or Julie Andrews. Listening to Ms. Andrews sing the work of Rodgers and Hammerstein is a treat in itself. The cast does a great job, and watching this 'live' performance is a reminder of days gone by. A great experience and well worth your money. Do yourself a favor...buy this DVD, soak in the talent which is Julie Andrews and a fine cast, and have yourself a "lovely night". :)

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Customer Rating:
Summary: Cinderella 1957
Comment: The original live television production of Cinderella starring Julie Andrews is a 5 star performance made more impressive by the fact that the actors, chorus and dancers had to work in restricted space, had to know their lines and places perfectly because live TV left no room for error. If a mistake was made, it was broadcast. The use of sparklers and other now cheesy and someout laugable effects are a result of the technilogical limitations of the era. One must be doubly impressed by the perfect timing of quick costume changes, scenery movement and a 15-foot wide stage. 51 years later, however, it is still remarkably entertaining. I would recommend this DVD to all. Finally, no review would be complete wothout a mention of Julie Andrews' excellent performance and the incredibly professional performances of the supporting cast.

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Customer Rating:
Summary: Wonderful!
Comment: The movie is great! Julie Andrews is amazing. This movie is a rare treat. When I heard she played Cinderella I just had to have it. I couldn't find it anywhere else & Amazon had it for a great price.

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Customer Rating:
Summary: EXCELLENT
Comment: Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella (1957 Television Production) Was a great movie! It was excellent graphics for being a kinescope and the sound was pristine. I encourage all to buy this movie. Julie Andrews is the true Cinderella

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Customer Rating:
Summary: Cinderella - Julia Andrews Version 1957
Comment: Loved Julia Andrews! Loved the special feature about the making of the show! Loved seeing Rogers and Hammerstein on the Ed Sullivan Show! These guys are icons. It is amazing what was accomplished on live television.

I find this to be a great historical record and and enjoyable performance. However, television and the staging of musicals has become more lavish and creative, so based on that criteria, my preference is the Brandy version. However, even Brandy does not hold a candle to Julie Andrews for being Cinderella! (And Leslie Anne Warren, 1965 version doesn't even come close!)

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