Into the Woods

This was the first time I had seen Into the Woods and indeed the first time I had seen Phoenix Operatic Society but I do hope it is not the last, in respect of Phoenix.

It is a very brave society who tackles a Sondheim Musical, especially one as complex as this but Phoenix did tackle it and it paid off. Most people will know Sondheim music is not the easiest of music to get around, at times it is very discordant and can sometimes be said to sound out of key but the talent on stage tonight coped with all this to produce a first class entertaining show.

Into the Woods tells the well known fairy tales such as Cinderella, Red Riding Hood and Jack and The Beanstalk through the eyes of The Brothers’ Grimm played with ease by Steve Wilson and Simon Raffo, they were able to narrate the stories throughout the whole show and keep the momentum going.

The story can be quite complex but the clever direction and characterisations meant the audience could follow it with some ease, the main parts of Jack played by Andrew Trueman, Little Red Riding Hood, Pippa Lane and Cinderella, Anita Boylan were all very convincing and gave sterling performances.

The story unfolds with the witch telling the Baker, played by Patrick Sherlock, and his wife played by Tanvia Knight, that for them to have a family he must get hold of the main ingredients to help her reverse a spell. Gwen Walker as the Witch was excellent; both as the ugly witch and after the spell had been lifted. As the Witch she was able to scurry around the stage like a raged animal in what must have been a difficult posture but scurry she did and was perfect.  

All the principals were ably supported by the chorus, who at times formed part of the scenery, and also the smaller parts to deliver a very enjoyable evening’s entertainment.

Thank you Phoenix.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.