Big fun & adventure in the woods

I am a Sondheim virgin no longer. Yes, it’s true. While I was familiar with some of his work – certainly play titles and some of the songs – I had never actually seen any of the plays. For those of you who haven’t seen it, Into the Woods is a big, rollicking fairy tale journey – a musical mash-up of some of your favourite fairy tale characters – full of fun, romance, adventure, but with a dark edge and a cautionary message about the consequences of one’s actions.

StageWorks Toronto’s inaugural production of Into the Woods, helmed by director Lorraine Green-Kimsa and music director Tara Litvack, had a cast that delivered big time on the action and music of this epic tale. Stephen Flett gave a fine performance as the narrator, ushering both the audience and characters through the tale – and even got in on the action (which I won’t comment on any further as it would be a big spoiler). Stand-out performances from the young adult actors playing the kids: Cameron Fox-Revett (as the sweet but somewhat dim-witted and naive Jack) and Esther Vallins (a kick-ass Little Red Riding Hood). Lovely work from Sergio Calderon and Jennifer Dewar (as the Baker and his wife, who must undertake some challenging errands on behalf of the Witch in order to break a family curse and have a baby) – and Michelle Cabral was an excellent Witch (a complex role in both the acting and singing of it). Highly entertaining turns from Oscar Moreno (Rapunzel’s Prince) and Michael Yaneff (Cinderella’s Prince), as well as Cinderella’s step-sisters (Stefne Mercedes and Trish Cleyn). Good work all around from this hard-working ensemble and their miniature live orchestra.

Adding to the fun was bumping into various folks I know from Alumnae and Cabbagetown Theatre, especially Victoria Shepherd and her daughter Viv, and Tina McCulloch, who I sat with in the front row. I (and the audience) laughed a lot and applauded every song – and I will admit to getting teary-eyed during No One is Alone.

There’s still a chance to see this: today’s matinée and evening performance, as well as a matinée tomorrow (the Sunday matinée may be sold out, though).

Check out the StageWorks website for info and preview clips: http://stageworkstoronto.com/