Fairy tales twist takes to the stage

 

Into the Woods, the latest production by Otamatea Repertory Theatre, is sure to be perfect school holiday entertainment for the family.

Written by American composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim, and directed by ORT’s Peter Flower, the clever Broadway musical intertwines the plots of several Brothers Grimm and Charles Perrault fairy tales, exploring the consequences of the characters’ wishes and quests.

The main characters are taken from Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk, Rapunzel and Cinderella, as well as several others. The musical is tied together by a story involving a childless baker and his wife and their quest to begin a family and their interaction with a witch who has placed the curse on them.

The musical premiered on Broadway in 1987 winning several Tony Awards including Outstanding Musical, in a year dominated by Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Phantom of the Opera. It’s been a decade since ORT’s last performance of the show. “We will be using a cutting-edge orchestral suite, the latest in interactive musical technology, for the musical accompaniment,” says co-producer Maura Flower.

“We have an excellent cast with many young, talented performers and of course, some old faces with a little black humour thrown in for good measure.”

„ Ticket buyers can qualify for a 20 percent discount for the opening weekend only – conditions apply. Four or more tickets (including one adult) must be purchased at Tony’s Lotto Shop in Maungaturoto to get the discount. Tickets also available online at ort.org. nz. Adults $28, students $15. The eight show season opens July 14 and ends Sunday July 29.