East Ridge Enchants With Into the Woods

by Ana Bechel, Timber Creek HS

Enchanting forests, desperate wishes, crazy witches, conniving wolves, and a little boy who creates a big problem, this is the essence of Into the Woods, a musical production performed by East Ridge High School.

Into the Woods combines fairy tale classics such as Cinderella and Little Red Riding Hood, to essentially tell the tale of a baker and his wife and their perilous journey for a child. Along the way the couple, played by Matthew McLachlan and Rebecca Whitlock, meet many eccentric characters such as the little boy Jack who sells his cow for magic beans and the ill-treated Cinderella, running away from the pursuing handsome prince. As the plot continues, many unexpected twists and turns evolve in a mixture of catchy songs and simple, well choreographed dancing.

Despite the fact that there were many character interactions and developments happening at the same time, each character complemented the other wonderfully. Little Red Riding Hood, played by Shannon Lynch, connected very well with her counterpart characters, such as the baker. The cast worked together, putting on 3 different stories at the same time and slowly coming together in the end for a musically delightful ending with the simple message of there is always someone on your side.

The witch, played by Amanda Riggio, had an extraordinary stage presence with her powerful voice and never-ending characterization. The baker’s wife, played by Rebecca Whitlock, had a beautiful voice, and a sweet nature about her that demanded the audience’s attention.

This particular set was simple, and broad but very well used. With a stage that extended from upstage, spilling out into the audience, each section was versatile and used wisely. The stage was also accented nicely with intricate and detailed props such as a movable horse and cow. Also, the well put together, detailed costumes brought out the very best in each character.

In the end, you leave the play with a little something. Whether it be a good laugh, cry, or a true moral, Into the Woods, performed by East Ridge High School was simply enchanting.

Originally published in The Backstage Noise, Winter Edition 2006