By ZACHARIAH ABERCRUMBIA/Contributor
The University of Texas at Tyler School of Performing Arts, in collaboration with the Stage Notes Academy of Performing Arts Theater in Athens, will stage the musical “Into the Woods” bringing a mix of classic fairy tales to life on stage.
THE SHOW: The production features both UT Tyler students and East Texas community members, highlighting local talent. Directed by Dr. Sooah Park, UT Tyler professor of music, and Karen Holmes, academy owner and director, the production features Stephen Sondheim’s music and James Lapine’s book. The two-act musical intertwines stories from “Cinderella,” “Jack and the Beanstalk,” “Little Red Riding Hood” and “Rapunzel,” along with the journey of a baker and his wife who seek to break a curse preventing them from having a child.
The musical explores themes of loss, responsibility, and the unintended consequences of wishes.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING: “Watching our students step into these iconic roles with such passion and dedication has been nothing short of inspiring,” Park said in a statement released by the university. “Their commitment, along with the incredible collaboration from Stage Notes Academy, is making this performance an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.”
Among those eager to see the show is Lily Yeckman, a UT Tyler psychology major, who shared her excitement about watching “Into the Woods.” Having grown up loving fairy tales, she was particularly drawn to “Tangled,” the Disney adaptation of Rapunzel, and feels a personal connection to the character.
“Rapunzel’s journey of stepping outside her comfort zone and discovering herself really resonates with me,” Strait said. “I feel “Rapunzel” kind of mirrors my own life and I can’t wait to see how the story unfolds on stage.”
THE CAST: The cast includes Daniel Holmes, Sariah Holmes and Nicholas Wilcoxson, all of Athens; Brandy Buchanan of Eustace; Caitlynn Vanzandt of Henderson; Giovanni “Gio” Pinedo of Kerens; Marcus Howard and Andrea Ortiz-Sampallo of Longview; Tabitha Gregory of Lubbock; and Lucy Holden of Van.
SHOW TIMES: Performances are scheduled for 7 p.m. April 11-12 at the UT Tyler Braithwaite Recital Hall. Additional shows will be staged 3 p.m. April 13 and 7 p.m. April 19 at the SNAPA Theater 224 N. Prairieville St., Athens.
TICKET PRICES: Tickets are $20 and can be purchased through the academy’s website.
Park noted that Act Two may not be suitable for young children.
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