Since the dramatic impact Stephen Sondheim made on the entire theatrical world, his works have captivated audiences worldwide. 

His second musical, the 1986 Into The Woods, became one of the most successful pieces of his career, approaching the same level of popularity as Sweeney Todd. Its complex themes serve as a warning against the dangers of scapegoating and highlight the clear differences between honesty and niceness. 

With such an important piece of theater resting on the shoulders of the Cary Grove Fine Arts Department, the question an undecided viewer might ask is: Did they do justice to the original work? The answer is a resounding yes!

Sondheim’s second theatrical work features an unconventional structure, with each act containing its own plot and design, which poses a significant challenge for any adapter of the work. 

The production and scenic design go beyond this issue, creating a highly adaptable and visually stunning backdrop that makes it easy to suspend disbelief and fully engage with the world it presents. 

The most difficult suspension of disbelief I experienced during the performance was regarding the Giant’s boots. The two transparent cages, representing the Giant’s enormous feet, were particularly hard to get used to, as the audience could readily see the ensemble crew operating the equipment behind the shoes. 

Aside from this, the practical effects were simply astonishing and marked a remarkable achievement in Cary Grove Fine Arts history.

Regarding the acting skills of the performers, Katie Groos, as the Witch, was easily the highlight of the performance with her incredible vocal abilities, best displayed in the climactic ballad, “Last Midnight.” Riley Hester, as Little Red Riding Hood, served as the comedic heart of the production. Tommy Nollett, as Milky White, skillfully puppeteered the marionette, bringing life to such a significant plot point.

In summary, Cary Grove’s Into The Woods was an extraordinary experience. With its practical effects, magical score, and impressive performances by each character, I will personally recommend this show to any skeptical potential audience. Be sure to catch the performance before it’s gone forever.