James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim's most popular musical weaves well-known fairy-tales with messages we have learned as children. However, this musical has us question those messages: Do we need a prince to be happy? Does "happily ever after" exist? Do our choices have consequences? Do we know what we really want? The woods are a metaphor for our journey in life. Just like the characters, we have struggles, made personal choices and are trying to find ourselves. During these past two years, we took new paths and learned new technology, yet our adversities and successes helped us to learn more about ourselves. It is through our trials and joys we experience happiness, however, brief. Just like life, when one wish is fulfilled, there is always another new adventure "Into the Woods."
We are so excited to be able to present this musical to you live and in-person. This production has had its challenges, but we worked through them. To the cast, crew, and pit, thank you for all the magic you created and embracing the themes in this text. The seeds of creativity have grown like a beanstalk. Our woods are more than just trees; we are a community: a place of learning, growth and light. Our production would not have happened without our school community. To the production staff, students, and parents, thank you for your dedication and support.
Every person has an impact whether they know it or not, and our journey never ends. This is just one point in our life journey. Our world has changed dramatically since this musical debuted in the 80s. But its messages are relevant today. When everything seems at odds, who do we blame? Who is actually to blame? What is right? What is wrong? We all may have opposing viewpoints and experiences, but at the end of the musical, I hope you learn the most important lesson: "no one is alone."
