Venture “Into the Woods” with North’s theater department for this year’s spring musical on Mar. 15-17.
James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim’s classic musical “Into the Woods” tells the story of a baker, played by senior Ben Grobstein, and his wife, played by senior Eleanor Peska, going on grueling adventures after consulting a witch in hopes of having a child.
Combining several Brothers Grimm fairy tales including stories like “Rapunzel” and “Little Red Riding Hood,” this show explores themes of perseverance and personal growth.
“I adore this show and I always have,” Peska said. “There is something truly special about a show that can make you laugh, cry, yell and reflect on your life choices all within a span of two and a half hours. ‘Into the Woods’ does exactly that.”
The fairy tale stories featured in this show also connect to sophomore cast member Lily Pyatt, as she loves the story of Rapunzel.
“Rapunzel has always been my favorite Disney princess, and I even dressed up as her for Halloween one year,” Pyatt said. “To be playing her in this amazing production is such an honor and full circle moment.”
New musical director and tech director Cristian Larios and Bri Perry along with returning costume and makeup director Aaron Mejorada chose this production due to its uplifting and collaborative nature.
“We’ve done a lot of modern shows in recent years, and I wanted something that contrasted those past experiences,” Larios said. “Each character has a wish they would do anything for, and they quickly learn that their actions have unwanted consequences. The characters learn that they need to face their issues head on and come together to overcome their situations.”
This show marks the last North musical production for the 14 seniors in the cast. Grobstein feels a mix of emotions.
“I’m incredibly grateful for all the experiences I’ve had at North, but it is very bittersweet acting in my last show here,” Grobstein said. “I’ve met so many amazing people that have become my closest friends and have been able to express myself in a very different way through theater.”
Grobstein’s favorite part of this production has been the group’s growth and togetherness.
“Everyone in the show has got their own strengths and it’s amazing to see everyone thrive,” Grobstein said.
Senior cast member Hadley McFarland, who plays Jack’s mother, also feels positively about the cast’s dynamic.
“I think the cast is working really well together,” McFarland said. “Everyone seems to be comfortable with each other. We have a lot of fun at rehearsals, but are also able to lock-in and work on the show.”
Freshman Emma Cleveland’s role as Gretel marks her debut in the North theater department, and she’s thankful for the opportunity.
“I’ve always wanted to do shows at North and getting able to start my freshman year is more than I could ask,” Cleveland said.
Tech crew student leader senior Sam Wylie is feeling good about her group’s attitude and determination to accomplish new goals.
“It has definitely been better as compared to the last show,” Wylie said. “Our new tech director is awesome, and I have full confidence that we can pull off her vision. We have a ton of new people who are interested and excited to learn.”
Tech crew has faced some challenges during the production process, but student leader senior Georgia Chlebek feels the students are persevering through all the changes and new experiences.
“The challenges of tech are mostly people worrying that it’d be like previous shows,” Chlebek said. “Also, the fact that sometimes we have too many or too few people to get things done. Overall, though, it’s been great.”
Available tickets will be sold at the door before each show, and they are also available to purchase online. Online ticket information can be found on the theater department’s Instagram page, @pnhs.theatre.
