Story by: Lev Cardenas, Staff Writer
Photo by: Lev Cardenas, Staff Writer
The Cypress Theatre Department opened the musical “Into the Woods” on Friday, Oct. 10, directed by Jen McMillin.
“Into the Woods” is a 1986 musical with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and a book written by James Lapine. It intertwines many of the Brothers Grimm fairytales, including “Little Red Riding Hood,” “Jack and the Beanstalk,” “Cinderella”, and “Rapunzel”. The plot also follows a baker and his wife who wish to start a family, and a witch who has placed a curse on them. The story embarks on each character’s journey and interactions with other storybook characters. As the characters interact, the musical explores their journeys, wishes, and the consequences of their desires.
“Everybody wants something, everybody needs something, that’s what kick-starts everything,” said Marty Florence, who plays Little Red Riding Hood, “And that’s where humans go in life, they’re like ‘I need this, I need this next thing, I need something more.””
“Into the Woods” pushes the characters into situations where they work together and bond with one another, even in the face of arguments and conflicts that come their way. The connections and sense of community that arise throughout the production are central themes in both the plot and the cast dynamics.
“The most fun part of the role is the people I’m around,” said James Andrew Gonzales, a member of the rail crew, “…we’re all usually connected on mic, and it’s always nice to have a little chat.”
The musical blends an amount of emotions, such as joy, humor, and grief, that resonate with audiences of all ages. It provides life lessons that encourage the audience to think about their own experiences, wishes, and what they have learned from them.
“This show really makes you question your own choices and how you go about things…and the reasons you go for it,” said Samuel Gerardo Lopez, who plays The Baker, “And the effects that your actions can have on the people around you.”
Director McMillin shared her hopes for the audience’s experience. “I want them [the audience] to walk away feeling comforted and feeling seen,” she said “‘Into the Woods’ is just a big meditation on life.”
The production will continue on Oct. 17 and 18 at Cypress College Theatre with tickets available online at www.cypresscollegetheatre.com or at the box office before the performance.
