Into the Woods is a beloved and thought-provoking musical that weaves together several classic fairy tales into a complex narrative exploring the consequences of our choices and the power of community. Based on the book by James Lapine, with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, the show follows a Baker and his wife as they embark on a journey to reverse a curse placed on their family. Along the way, their paths intersect with a host of familiar characters - Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack (of beanstalk fame), and more - each pursuing their own wishes and dreams.
At its core, Into the Woods is about the power of storytelling and the impact our words and actions can have, not just on our own lives, but on those around us and future generations. The show challenges us to consider the unintended consequences that can arise when we are solely focused on achieving our personal goals without regard for the broader community.
For the students of Jefferson High School, this production continues a long-standing tradition of bringing challenging, meaningful musicals to life. The integrity and dedication our student performers, technicians, pit band and crew bring to this work is truly inspiring. Their commitment to honoring the complexity of the source material while bringing fresh energy and insights is a testament to the talent and passion of this community.
In a time when civil discourse can feel increasingly fraught, Into the Woods reminds us of the weight our words carry and the importance of considering multiple perspectives. I hope this production sparks thoughtful discussions about the lessons we can learn from these classic tales and how we might apply them to navigate the challenges we face in the real world.
Thank you for joining us on this journey into the woods. I am grateful to share this experience with all of you and hope the wishes we are granted and the magic sparked leaves us all enchanted, hopeful and willing to pass on that love to our fellow travelers in the woods.
Benji Braswell
