ABOUT WILLIS PLAYERS
Dr. Heather Carlson-Jaquez started the Willis Players theater ministry in 2018 with Godspell Jr. on the urging of some persistent middle school students. This ministry promotes arts education in the community of Eastern Henrico at low cost to students and families. This ministry wouldn't be possible without the support of so many people: Pastor David's and the Willis Church Board of Trustee's encouragement, Tom Reeve for providing sound, David Reid and Christopher Jaquez for installing a stage and the Women of Willis for providing receptions.
FROM THE DIRECTOR
I am overjoyed that we are able to continue our theater ministry despite the state of the world. Covid has certainly made live theater more difficult, but even through exposures and illnesses the cast and parents have persevered to get this show on stage in front of a live audience!
It is incredible to see the middle school aged students we started with grow as high schoolers in their skill and personality as they play the lead roles in Into the Woods. Our newest cast members are a blessing to our ministry and we are so grateful to have them. And our youngest cast members are growing in confidence and ability with every show, which is exciting for the future of our theater troupe!
ABOUT THE MUSICAL
What happens when some of our favorite fairytale characters - Cinderella, Jack (of the Beanstalk), Little Red Riding Hood, Wolf and Rapunzel all cross paths in the woods? You get Into the Woods Jr.
Our beloved fairytale characters are on the run from the seemingly foolish Baker and his Wife. However, the couple has an endearing mission - they are on a desparte quest to have a child. In order to break the Witch's curse that made them childless, they must gather four items: a cow as white as milk, a cape as red as blood, hair as yellow as corn, and a slipper pure as gold. On this difficult journey through the woods there is a looming presence. Who is this Mysterious Man who speaks in riddles?
Please enjoy meeting our characters as they try to find their "happily ever after!"
