L to R: Liz Mulligan as The Baker’s Wife; Ryan Power as The Baker; Heather Ann Bounds as The Witch. Photo by Nate Jackson Photography.
Fairy tales are typically known for cheer and magic, routinely ending with the proverbial “happily ever after.” Stephen Sondheim’s legendary musical, “Into the Woods,” turns this concept on its head, exploring the darker side of fairy tales and the life lessons that they teach. This play, currently onstage at 2nd Star Productions, features a cavalcade of well-known characters, an array of poignant themes, and a classic soundtrack filled with Sondheim masterpieces.
…impressive staging…Alex Campbell did a phenomenal job of directing…first-rate production…a must-see for audiences of all ages.
“Into the Woods” tells the story of a baker and his wife, who aspire to have a child. The couple live next door to a witch, who has placed a curse on them that will leave them childless. To break the curse, the baker and his wife must venture into the perilous woods to retrieve a collection of items for the witch. Along the way, the pair meet Cinderella, who wishes to attend the King’s Festival (the town ball), Jack, who wishes his cow would give milk, and Little Red Riding Hood, who wishes to visit her sick grandmother. Later, Jack’s beanstalk brings an angry giant to the kingdom, and the community must sacrifice and come together to save the land and each other. While Act 1 focuses primarily on the “happily ever after” aspect of the play, Act 2 explores the sobering consequences of the characters’ wishes. This juxtaposition provides a unique perspective, allowing for both laughter and reflection.
Ryan Power (The Baker) and Liz Mulligan (The Baker’s Wife) each gave brilliant performances, presenting excellent singing voices. Their acting was outstanding, as they earnestly expressed their characters’ love for one another and desire to have a child. Additionally, the duo effectively conveyed humor, confusion, and fear throughout the play.
The Witch was splendidly personified by Heather Ann Bounds, who truly embodied her role through her evil demeanor and sinister delivery. Her powerhouse vocals were a perfect match for the role, and her dynamic rendition of “Last Midnight” was a highlight. As Cinderella, AnnaBelle Auguste exhibited a stunning soprano voice, and her soaring solos were magnificent. She also demonstrated humorous physical comedy, causing the audience to erupt into laughter during her onstage falls and mishaps. Imani Corbin’s delightful portrayal of Little Red Riding Hood was marked by her bubbly disposition and animated facial expressions. A gifted actress, Corbin wonderfully depicted both terror and kindness, and her acting through song was spectacular. Creed Jackson played Jack with warmth and confidence, and his rich tenor voice was the ideal vehicle for his complex solos. He tenderly conveyed his affection for his cow, Milky White, while also projecting a fanciful and bold personality.
Other noteworthy performances included Ruby Maghoney (Rapunzel), J.R. Hontz (Narrator/Mysterious Man), Davis Wootton-Klebanoff (Wolf/Cinderella’s Prince), Willie Hadnot, Jr. (Rapunzel’s Prince), Stephanie Ichniowski (Florinda (Cinderella’s Stepsister), Tonya Mayo (Lucinda (Cinderella’s Stepsister)), and Jaclyn Hanson (Granny/Giant). Maghoney’s dulcet vocals were a lovely fit for the character of Rapunzel, and her enthusiastic pantomime delighted the audience. Hontz’s sonorous baritone voice added depth to his narration, and he displayed an aura of mystique and jolliness as the Mysterious Man. Hadnot, Jr. and Wootton-Klebanoff were flawless in their duet, “Agony,” and their voices blended harmoniously. Their comedic performances were charming, and their timing and delivery were top-notch. Wootton-Klebanoff was also tremendously entertaining as the wolf, eliciting uproarious laughs. Ichniowski and Mayo were hilarious as Cinderella’s stepsisters, presenting hysterical slapstick and exaggerated gestures. Hanson was delightfully sassy as Granny and The Giant, delivering her lines with conviction and zeal.
Alex Campbell did a phenomenal job of directing this production, and his energetic enactment was complemented by his vivid sets (designed in collaboration with Makayla Davis and Gene Valendo). Felicia Moore’s whimsical costumes featured creations ranging from simple earth hues to dazzling royal regalia, and her designs added visual dimension to the characters. Music Director, Sarah Mitchell, wonderfully led the cast through Sondheim’s demanding score, which was beautifully played by Brendan Harper’s fabulous 11-piece orchestra. Leigh K. Rawls’ specially designed prop of Milky White was adorable, and her creation captivatingly brought the cow to life, drawing a spirited response from the spectators.
2nd Star Productions’ impressive staging of “Into the Woods” is a royal treat for the entire family. This first-rate production of a Sondheim mainstay will teach valuable lessons and foster wonder. With its many unforgettable “Moments in the Woods,” this show is a must-see for audiences of all ages.
Running Time: Approximately two hours and 45 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission.
“Into the Woods” runs through June 28, 2025 at the Bowie Playhouse, 16500 White Marsh Park Drive, Bowie, MD 20715. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. (with additional 7:30 p.m. performances on Thursday, June 19 and Thursday, June 26) and Sundays at 2 p.m. The performance on Saturday, June 28 will be a 2 p.m. matinee. For more information and to purchase tickets, go online or visit the Box Office prior to the performance.
