Swain High brings Sondheim’s ‘Into the Woods’ to life
The stage at Swain Arts Center is set to transform into a magical forest as Swain County High School students bring Stephen Sondheim’s acclaimed musical “Into the Woods” to life this month.
Performances will run March 20, 21, 27, and 28 at 6 p.m., with matinees on March 22 and 29 at 2:30 p.m.
Directed by Pearl Moore, the school’s theatre teacher, the production features nearly 50 students in leading and supporting roles, working alongside a dedicated team of staff including Benjamin Cutler, costume designer Kim Holt, set coordinator Derek Oetting, technical master Joe Holt, music instructor Tim Sale, and finance coordinator Ginger Parsons.
“It takes a village to put on a musical of this caliber,” said Moore.
Leading cast members include Abby Jordan as Cinderella, Myles Taylor as Jack from “Jack and the Beanstalk,” Kylee Nations as Little Red Riding Hood, Abby Cutler as “The Witch,” Isabel Barker as “The Baker’s Wife,” Hunter Smith as “The Baker” and Savannah Gunter as “Jack’s Mom.” Moore noted that the show also highlights several roles not typically featured in fairy tales, giving students a chance to shine in unique parts.
Students have been rehearsing since January, perfecting Sondheim’s intricate score and witty lyrics. Kylee Nations designed the elaborate set, built by Oetting, while Emma Demonet and Kendal Brown, assisted by Holt, crafted and modified the show’s costumes. Lighting design was created by Ni-Luh Menaka.
Earlier this week, the students participated in a pre-adjudication session with the Marquee Awards from the Marquee Theatre in Tennessee, a free educational program that evaluates school productions in areas such as performance, design and artistry.
Two standout performers from the musical may move on to audition for the prestigious Jimmy Awards in New York City, which recognize excellence in high school musical theater nationwide.
“Into the Woods” weaves together classic fairy tales into a story with a darker, thought-provoking twist. The plot follows a Baker and his wife, whose wish for a child is blocked by a witch’s curse, as well as Cinderella, who wants to attend the king’s festival, and Jack, who wishes his cow would give milk. As the characters’ journeys intersect, the story examines the consequences of desire and the cost of pursuing a “happily ever after.”
Audiences can expect a spellbinding mix of humor, suspense, and unforgettable music as Swain County High School takes theatergoers “Into the Woods.”
Tickets are available online for $6 for students and $10 for adults, or at the door for $8 and $12.
All the photos used in this article were taken by Swain High School freshman Betsy Marley.