Once upon a time ... a group of travelers -- teachers, mentors, artists, musicians, builders, singers and dancers -- set off on an enchanted journey through the woods, where the echoes of timeless tales and the whispers of cautionary wisdom blend seamlessly into a symphony of music and magic. Tonight, you join us as we delve into the heart of this bewitching forest and embark upon a voyage of self-discovery, guided by the masterful storytelling of Pulitzer Prize winners and multiple Tony Award winners, James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim.
In Into the Woods, Lapine and Sondheim ingeniously intertwine the beloved narratives of Cinderella, Jack and the Beanstalk, and Little Red Riding Hood, weaving them together with threads of enchantment and consequence. Within this tapestry of fairytales, we encounter wicked witches, mysterious figures, and towering giants, each playing their part in a grand allegory of the human experience.
Yet at the heart of our tale lies the poignant saga of the Baker and his Wife, whose yearning for a child sets them on a quest fraught with trials and temptations. As they venture deeper into the woods, they discover that every wish fulfilled carries with it a price, and every action, no matter how small, sets off ripples that shape the world around them.
Heed the timeless wisdom embedded in these stories: "Careful what you wish for," for the consequences of our desires may be far greater than we anticipate. "Actions have consequences," and every choice we make leaves an indelible mark upon our journey. And remember, "Children will listen," so let us be mindful of the words we speak, for they have the power to shape the minds and hearts of those who follow in our footsteps.
Before we begin our adventure, let us extend our deepest gratitude to the administration, parents, guest artists, and custodians whose unwavering support have made this production possible.
And to our graduating seniors, as you embark upon your own journey beyond these woods, know that you carry with you the memories and magic of this place forevermore. And when you find yourselves battling your own metaphorical giants, remember this -- you are not alone.
No one is alone.
So now, dear audience, let us venture forth together, into the woods where dreams and realities intertwine, and where the echoes of our choices echo beyond the walls of this theatre.
