Review By Melanie Miller, Front Row Reviewers
When I sat down to watch Into the Woods at On Pitch Performing Arts (OPPA) in Layton, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Having never seen the show, I went in with an open mind and heart. I wasn’t disappointed. This show tells the stories of the fairytale characters of our childhood – Jack, Rapunzel, Little Red Riding Hood, Cinderella, and a baker and his wife, among others. There’s even the requisite witch. The first half of the show sees these stories play out with the expected happy endings tying up just as we get to intermission. We come back to see that things after the stories aren’t always so happy. But when all is said and done, we still learn a valuable lesson (the point of all fairy tales) even if we must endure a little death and sadness along the way.
Bailey Porter’s set is minimal but effective, which was not surprising given the cozy size of the performance space. But the savvy use of graphics on the screen at the back of the stage immediately help immerse us into the typical fairy tale woods. The lighting design by Kace Bartholomew and sound design by Joshua Rice adds to the ethereal atmosphere. Stephen Sondheim’s music transports us immediately into this fantasy world. Travis Clark’s music direction helps beautifully showcase Sondheim’s intricate melodies and complex harmonies.
Kristie Post Wallace’s direction utilizes the talents of the cast. Right off the bat there are several standout performances. Jon Wright and Heather Ann Jackson’s portrayals of the Baker and his wife are tender and touching. Jackson is especially poignant in the finale. Their vocal performances are some of the strongest in the show. As is Cassie Hurt-McLarty’s portrayal of Cinderella. She has some serious vocal chops, and her soprano melodies are a standout. Harriet Bauer steals the show with her sardonic take on Little Red Riding Hood. Her one-liners and comedic deliveries keep us laughing throughout the show, particularly the darker moments of the second half.
Kennedy Miller’s costume design transports us back to the late 60’s with whimsical outfits such as the stepsisters’ poodle skirts and the baker’s wife’s bell bottoms. They give the show a very classic TV vibe that adds a light-heartedness to the story. The highlight of Hunter Williams‘ choreography is the princes’ melodramatic duet of “Agony”, the song talking about their heartbreak at not catching their respective princesses and their competition of whose pain was the worst.
OPPA! is a little gem of theater tucked in behind Summerhay’s Music on Main Street. With a capacity of about 90 people, it makes for a very intimate evening of theater. The parking is good, but can fill up so get there a little early. The staff is helpful and dedicated.
Into the Woods at OPPA! is a definite must see. Even if you’ve seen this musical before, On Pitch Performing Arts brings its own twist that makes it worth seeing again. Into The Woods is double cast.
Note: This show contains some violence and dark themes. It may not be suitable for young children.
On Pitch Performing Arts presents Into the Woods by Stephen Sondheim.
OPPA, 587 North Main Street, Layton, UT 84041
June 27 – 29; July 1; July 8-13
Tickets: $14.50 – $17.50
Contact: 385-209-1557
On Pitch Performing Arts’ Facebook Page
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