Write a commentWhat happens after “happily ever after”?
Currently showing at The Art Scene (née CNY Community Arts Center), “Into the Woods” offers viewers an answer to that very question.
This children’s theater production showcases the complex and layered emotions of this classic production, with music and lyrics by composer Stephen Sondheim. For those unfamiliar with the musical, “Into the Woods” combines multiple fairy tale stories (Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, and Jack & the Bean Stalk, to name the most prominent) into a single, overarching narrative. Building tensions of the original tales rely on viewers’ expectations to further the story of the Baker and his Wife, who are collecting items to reverse a spell in order to have a child.
The show is directed by Jane Schuessler, with music director Joseph Schuessler, and produced by Nick Gentile. According to the directors, “We knew we were selecting a show that would challenge our young performers in ways they have never experienced before… From the first rehearsal to the final curtain, they have met every challenge with enthusiasm, maturity, and an inspiring commitment to growth.”
Indeed, the performers did a fantastic job offsetting the more macabre aspects of the performance (Little Red Riding Hood getting eaten by the wolf, for example) with comedic flourishes that at times made the production feel like a polished comedy of errors. For example, each time one of the princes came onto the set, they made sure to stomp their feet like horses—a move which had the audience in stitches every time.
In short, this production has everything art enthusiasts enjoy about musicals: great music, a beautiful set, familiar stories with new twists, and a satisfying ending.
Readers can catch the production this weekend and next at the Art Scene at CNY Community Arts Center. Tickets are available on their website here. General admission is $20, with discounts available for seniors and students.
What are you waiting for? It’s time to go into the woods!
