Into the Woods

UNMISSABLE THEATRE!! I can remember seeing ‘Into the woods’ on Broadway in 1987 with Bernadette Peters as a lead and Julia Mac-Kenzie in the West end in 1990 also the latest production on Broadway in 2023 and I have seen productions many times since. I never thought I would see a community theatre production better than those, yes, I said better!! 

Sam Manser-Mullin you are a genius, your vision of this ‘Into The Woods’ was nothing short of outstanding and exceptional. Phillip Hornsey as Musical Director and Pip Smith assistant Choreographer, you should be proud of your work on this piece of glorious theatre. Set designed by Grace Lloyd, Lighting by Ian Redding, Sound Lucie Nash, Costumes David Manser-Mullin, Properties Cat Smith and their teams excelled wonderfully. All drawn together expertly by Stage Manager Amy Harrington. You gave us your audience a wow factor the minute we walked into the Playhouse Theatre, Whitstable. In all my years as a NODA rep for SE District 5 I have never witnessed such an impressive, solid, workable set. Flawless in fact.

Sam Manser-Mullin, your choice of cast was incredible: all brilliant in both acting and singing, all knowing their craft all having thought about their characters, and this showed, and with your splendid direction, this piece of Musical theatre was so professional in every way. Luke Humphries his diction and Narration was clear and precise, perfect. Benjamin Ansley as the Baker and his Wife Cathy Thomas were perfectly teamed with great voices and acting ability. Jack: Theo Bawtree what an amazing young actor and singer. Cinderella: Darcy Andrews perfectly played the downtrodden daughter of Stepmother Victoria Bawtree and sister of Florinda, Megan Hill, and Susan Beer as Lucinda. These three were a giggle every minute when on-stage, well-done ladies. Princes Will Cooper and Omar Al Khina what can I say? They both certainly let us know they were on stage - they bounced off each other, and strong in character. What a part for Lucie Nash as the Witch - very controlled in her parts and what a voice and presence while on stage. Jack’s mother Alice Underdown - who would want a mother like Alice? Over the top and quite rightly so, beautifully played. Sweet and cute Little Red riding Hood and so she should be, nicely acted by Ellie Evens. Puppeteer David Manser Mulin had one of the most difficult parts to portray a cow! Milky White and David it was so lifelike, and you were in control of its movements all the time while you were on stage - excellent. Rapunzel: Hannah Barker nicely portrayed as was Mysterious Man Steve Scales both smaller parts but important to the plot. Cast playing ensemble parts were Grace Longstaff as Cinderella’s Mother, Steward Freddy Lewery Granny Marta Hawrylow and Oliver Conway.

Lindley Players you chose Sam to direct this magnificent piece of theatre and you chose well. I wouldn’t have missed this. 

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