The Spire

Emily Carbone ’28

Features Editor

As we near the halfway point of the first semester of this academic year, preparations for the Departmental Theater production “Into the Woods” are in full swing. Auditions took place in September, and rehearsals began the first week after October. break. As a cast member of both this production and the departmental production of “Sweeney Todd,” which was performed in February, I couldn’t help but notice both the similarities and differences between the two productions. I’ve spoken to a few cast members of “Into the Woods,” as well as our director, Meaghan Deiter, about what makes this production special–even in its beginning stages.

“I wanted to choose a show that was both similar and different to “Sweeney Todd,” explained Deiter. While both shows are composed by the late Stephen Sondheim, they are thematically very different to one another. Deiter further stated that she “also wanted to choose a show that could resonate even more with college students. Most of the characters are much closer in age to students as opposed to Sweeney.” In addition, she also enjoyed the fact that everyone in the cast had some sort of featured part, and there is no supporting ensemble like there is in “Sweeney Todd.” However, the cast is still significant, with a whopping 21 cast members and additional student crew.

I also spoke to a few cast members about their initial impressions of the first few rehearsals we’ve had. “I’m really excited for this show!” Connor Rizzo ’29, who is playing Jack, said. “I’m really enjoying spending time with the cast, and I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to play a part in this year’s musical.” Nora Fortune ’28, who was ensemble in “Sweeney Todd” and is playing Rapunzel this year, also made her excitement clear. “It’s a very different vibe than Sweeney, but still a vocally challenging show with a lot of fun scenes and parts.” 

The cast and crew of “Into the Woods” is hard at work beginning to piece together the show. Performances begin in February, so make sure to keep a look out for updates about the rehearsal process and eventual ticket sales! 

Featured image courtesy of Prior Performing Arts Center

Copy edited by Lily Wasmund ’28