Into the Woods - June 02 - June 11, 2023
City Theatre of Independence
WELCOME
A NOTE FROM THE DIRECTOR - Shari Wassergord
Sondheim's and Lapine's masterpiece, Into the Woods, has always been a favorite of mine, since recording on VHS the original production with Bernadette Peters on PBS many years ago. When casting and gathering people to work on the show, I met many more people who loved this musical. It was like discovering a new club. The lovely melodies, the humor, and the memorable characters combine in a retelling of classic fairy tales to which everyone will find something to relate. The first act will feel familiar as the stories are retold, but the second act asks what happens after "happily ever after." It explores what it takes to learn from our mistakes. It has been a rough road in getting this show to production, all the way back to when it was originally scheduled in 2020, but I hope you find our efforts worth it. Please enjoy.
A NOTE FROM THE CITY THEATRE OF INDEPENDENCE PRESIDENT
Welcome, honored guests, to City Theatre of Independence’s 43rd season!
When darkness surrounds you, and you lose your way
You have your compass that turns night to day,
And it's even with you before you depart.
Be still, hear it beating, it’s leading you
Follow your heart
(Urinetown, Hollman & Kotis: September 2022)
Thank you for following your heart and joining us for a season filled with inceptions: stories within
a story. From a musical that mocks its genre to plays about plays, the narrators in this season’s shows will enchant you as they share stories of politics, murder, family, and fairy tales. Whether you enjoy comedy, or tragedy, or want to see a beloved theatre classic, this season is certain to have a play (or two) that appeals to you. We invite you to experience each as you celebrate the return of live theatre and entertainment.
Into the woods . . .
To mind, to heed, to find, to think, to teach, to join,
To go to the Festival!
(Into the Woods, Sondheim: June 2023)
As a community theatre, we rely on community volunteers to direct, design, stage, volunteer, donate, and attend our shows. For several years, CTI has embraced the motto: where everyone plays a part, which has motivated us to play a bigger part in our community. Over the past year, we have partnered with various organizations within our community to provide more than ever. A generous grant from the Rotary Club of Independence has allowed us to partner with Able Hands Interpreting Service to provide an ASL interpreter for one performance of each show. We are partnering with Metropolitan Community College - Blue River to allow college students to learn stage design skills through hands-on learning. We are also partnering with our sister-theatre companies, Children’s Performing Theatre and Encore, to provide more community events for all Powerhouse members.
Whether today is your first visit or you have been with us for the past 43 years, thank you for supporting City Theatre, and enjoy the show!
Lynnae Andersen
President, City Theatre Inc.
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