Once Upon a Time…
Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine wrote a show based on the works of the Brothers Grimm and their fairy tales. If the stories ceased there, I have no doubt that there would have been enough material for a show just about the writing
process behind the show! But, we have been treated to a piece of musical theater art by an incredible team of musician and lyricist (Sondheim) and librettist (Lapine) featuring intensely creative and thoughtful ideas and challenging music centered on how the story of Cinderella, Jack and the Beanstalk, Little Red Riding Hood and others would intertwine if their various worlds came off their axis for just a few minutes. The first act explores what might happen if things only went slightly askew. The second act shows us what might happen if we truly did get everything we ever wished for!
The students who have been involved in Into the Woods have been nothing short of extraordinary. To do this challenging show with a brand new production team is no small feat and they have stepped into the challenge with open minds and hearts and will leave awe-inspiring performances on this stage, in the pit, or in their work in preparing the set and stage for what is about to transpire. Thank you to Sasha Forke (our assistant director) and Vidhi Patel (our crew chair and stage manager) for being willing to head the student teams needed to make this show possible. Their energy is matched only by their intellect, and we would not be introducing you to this show if they were not as vociferous and tenacious as they are!
Beginning the journey Into the Woods was no small feat of strength for the
members of this production team. Many of us had not worked together prior to this show, and I am eternally grateful to everyone who agreed to be a part of this
production. Colleen Sye (Vocal Direction), Jackie Davis (Producer),
Bethany Muhvic (Crew Coordinator), Chase Nelson (Choreographer/Swiss Army Knife), Jennifer Judd (Costumes), Jeremy Beyer (Pit Orchestra), and Chris Wittlieb (Set Design) contributed so much knowledge and energy to making Into the Woods come to life on this stage. I am in awe of your ability and passion for these students. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, and thank you from all of us to our families and friends who’ve been supportive of US as we bring this show to life!
Finally, thank you to all of the parents who have supported this process. Whether it was picking up your student after Pit Orchestra rehearsal, coming in to be a part of the Set Build Saturdays, or being here in these seats and being supportive we could not have done it without you!
Welcome to Dundee-Crown High School, welcome Into the Woods, and sit back and enjoy what might happen if you say the two little words…I Wish…
Mr. Jake Stouffer
Director
