Into the Woods

Into the Woods

Bridlington Amateur Operatic & Dramatic Society

 

Directed and choreographed by Shania Withey & Musical Director Geoff Allanach

Bridlington Spotlight Theatre

29th April 2025

 

From the moment the audience arrived, there was a wonderfully warm welcome that set the tone for an intimate and immersive evening. The venue, cleverly decked out to reflect the enchanted forest of Into the Woods, immediately drew you into Sondheim’s layered fairytale world. Despite the modest space, the production made excellent use of a simplistic but highly effective set. A projected woodland backdrop gave depth and atmosphere, while a stepped-back portion of the stage created versatile levels. One of the most delightful visual elements was the ‘book-like’ set pieces, which opened to reveal individual scenes for the three main storylines—a clever nod to the storybook roots of the musical.

Shania Withey, as both director and choreographer, clearly had a deep understanding of the material. The staging was dynamic and thoughtful, using the space well to maintain a constant flow. Her choreography was subtle, fitting the time period and tone of the show, never overshadowing the storytelling but always complementing it.

Musical Director Geoff Allanach delivered exceptional musical accompaniment on the piano throughout the performance. His ability to adapt and support the singers in real-time was nothing short of impressive. The cast, unmic’d, rose to the challenge with strong vocal performances that filled the space beautifully. The harmonies were tight, and the melodies soared—even in the most intricate of Sondheim’s compositions.

The performance Your Fault, a notoriously difficult number that this cast executed with remarkable precision and energy. It was a testament to the hours of rehearsal and the musical direction behind it, showcasing tight coordination and emotional intensity. A standout vocal performance came from Becky Arundel as the Witch. Her character’s development was mirrored in her singing, growing stronger and more commanding as the story progressed. She delivered both power and nuance, capturing the Witch’s complexity with grace.

Laura Jenkinson served as the Narrator, smoothly guiding the audience through the intertwined tales with clarity, ensuring the show’s pace never faltered. Adam Cockerill and Rebecca Boag as the Baker and the Baker’s Wife brought warmth and humour to their roles. Lottie Gray portrayed Cinderella with grace embodying the character’s transformation with elegance. Giannabella Crave brought just the right amount of bratty charm to Little Red Riding Hood, keeping the audience amused with her mischievous energy.

One of the evening’s true highlights, however, was James Ireland as Jack. His performance was a masterclass in sincerity and comedic timing. From his wide-eyed wonder to his emotional vulnerability, he delivered a performance that was both endearing and memorable. Ireland’s natural talent and stage presence suggest a bright future ahead in musical theatre, if his song Giants in the Sky is anything to go by.

Equally memorable were Dan Wharton and Liam Hatt as Cinderella’s Prince and Rapunzel’s Prince. Their duet, Agony, was comic perfection, blending melodrama with spot-on timing and physicality. Their performances were genuinely hilarious and brought a delightful levity to the production.

This production of Into the Woods was a triumph of imagination, heart, and talent. With standout performances, smart direction, and exceptional musical support, it proved that even in an intimate venue, big magic can be made.

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