The school musical Into the Woods is getting ready to take the stage. Students in the cast and stage crew have been practicing, building sets, and learning songs for the upcoming performance.
Into the Woods features music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and is based on a book by James Lapine, according to the play materials. The story, inspired by Grimm’s fairy tales, follows a baker and his wife as they travel into the woods to break a witch’s curse. Along the way, they meet Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack, and Rapunzel. The story teaches that wishes can have unexpected consequences.
Students from different grades are taking part in the production. Maya Pineda, a fifth-grader, will play Little Red Riding Hood.
“I have been in plays before, and when I found out the school was doing a play, I was all for it!” Pineda said. “When I found out I was Little Red, I was over the moon and I was so happy.”
She also explained the effort it takes to prepare. “It is a lot of work and practicing, but it will make for an awesome show,” Pineda said.
Students are also helping behind the scenes. Lily Lemken, a stage crew member, said, “I felt very honored to do stage crew.” She explained why she chose this role, saying, “I don’t like being on stage so I joined the stage crew.” Lemken will help with lighting and painting the sets to make sure the show runs smoothly.
Ensemble members are working hard to learn their songs and scenes. “My favorite part of being in an ensemble is when I get to sing,” Guiliana Brower, an ensemble member, said. She explained why she auditioned. “I wanted to audition for the musical because I thought it was going to be fun, especially because Mr. [Joseph] Gibbs was a part of it,” Guiliana Brower said. Gibbs is the school band director.
“It is exactly what I expected, and learning what to do so far has come easy for me,” Brower added. “I’m looking forward to seeing it all come together and having my family and friends come see it.”
