Into the Woods jr.

By VERDA MACKAY - Chico E-R, The Buzz
The Brothers Grimm favorite classic fairy tales are rolled into a wonderful musical full of intrigue, danger and enchantment with "Into the Woods Jr.," which premiered last week at Chico Theater Company. Stephen Sondheim wrote the music and lyrics for "Into the Woods," which debuted on Broadway in 1987. The one-act "Into the Woods Jr." has been adapted and shortened for young performers. The sophisticated score is easier for youthful voices.
Directed by Bob Maness, produced by Marc Edson, with music direction by Jim White and choreography by Kate Reeves, "Into the Woods Jr." features the Chico Theater Company "Rising Stars." This special program offers aspiring young actors the chance to experience theater arts through classes and special productions.
The large cast of characters, with ages from 10 to 18, has been rehearsing since last September to make this production memorable. Although they may not fully understand it, even small children will enjoy the dynamic action, exciting costumes and music of this show.
Storybook characters are mixed into the plot involving them all and requiring a narrator (Colin Allen) to keep it together. He tells of their special wishes. Cinderella (Jessica Mosbarger) wants to go to the King's Festival. The Baker (Daniel Tuccillo) and his wife (Leandra McNeal) wish for a child.
Jack (Joshua Maness) wishes his milky-white cow would give milk. His mother (Abigail Clark) makes him sell his cow and is angry when he only gets some beans. Little Red Riding Hood (Jillian Goddard) is off into the woods to visit her sick grandmother (Lindy Edstrom).
A mysterious man (Caleb Calkins) moves about the woods offering advice to those who won't listen. An evil witch (Makenzie White) casts spells, and a hungry wolf (Alex Van Patten) devours Red Riding Hood and her grandmother.
Rapunzel (Gia Giambalvo) is kept captive in a high tower by the wicked witch. She lets down her long, golden hair as a ladder for her prince (Kevin White) to rescue her. His brother, who is Cinderella's prince (Brandon Morgan), bounds about with a golden shoe looking for his true love whose foot will fit the slipper.
The large cast also includes David Clark, Sierra Hall, Mandi Ranalla, Bethany Morgan, Aly Denlay and Adam Maness. As the witch, Makenzie White stole the show with her shrill voice, small humpbacked stature, jerky movements and cackling laugh.
An exceptionally funny scene was performed by Brandon Morgan and Kevin White as the two princes. They postured around the stage in slapstick style while singing "Agony."
While none of the songs were memorable, an exception was the title song, "Into the Woods," sung by the entire company in grand finale, and the full-house audience gave a standing ovation.