WC Summer Stage presents “Into the Woods”
Familiar fairy tales take an unexpected turn when Weatherford College’s Summer Stage
production of “Into the Woods” opens July 24 in the Alkek Fine Arts Center.
Directed by James and Erin Brownlee, the Stephen Sondheim musical weaves together the stories of Cinderella, Rapunzel, Jack and the Beanstalk and Little Red Riding Hood, beginning with their traditional “happily ever after” endings before exploring the consequences that follow.
Performances are scheduled for July 24–26 and July 31–Aug. 2, with shows at 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays. Tickets are $10, and children under 5 are free and can be purchased at weatherfordcollege.simpletix.com.
The production highlights both the whimsy and emotional depth that have made “Into the Woods” one of Sondheim’s most celebrated works. The first act presents the well-known versions of classic tales, while the second act examines how the characters’ choices ripple outward, affecting not only their own lives but the lives of others.
“We chose this musical because of how it will resonate with every parent who faces difficult decisions in both trying to protect and teach their children, and how the decisions we make sometimes have unintended effects,” said James Brownlee, production co-director.
The show features a large ensemble cast and production team drawn from the college and the broader community. The cast includes Brian Lawson as the Narrator/Mysterious Man; Avalynn Ratliff as Cinderella; Hendry Blake as Cinderella’s Prince; Elijah Poole as Jack; Emily Ball as Little Red Riding Hood; Alanna Miller as Rapunzel; Alvaro Aquilar as Rapunzel’s Prince; Emmalyn Belshan as Sleeping Beauty; Lilly Ratliff as Snow White and many more.
The production also incorporates puppetry elements and a full musical score under the direction of Rick Rainey.
“Into the Woods” is rated PG due to thematic elements in the second act, which include implied character deaths. The production is suitable for most audiences, with parental discretion encouraged.
“Into the Woods” features music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and a book by James Lapine. The production is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International.