Heartwood Theater opens with the enchanting and beloved musical, “Into the Woods” on Thursday, July 13.  In their Tony Award winning book and score, Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine bring everyone’s favorite storybook characters together in this timeless, yet relevant piece.  One of Sondheim’s most popular works, “Into the Woods” is a musically sophisticated epic fairy tale about wishes, family and the choices we make.  

Maybe its popularity comes from the heart of the story, most certainly the focus of Director Griff Braley.  “You just can’t miss with this music, especially with the superb vocal coaching and directing of Beth Preston, along with Sean Fleming’s musical magic at the baby grand, sitting onstage.  I leave the challenges of Sondheim’s music to Sean, Beth and a very talented cast, while we build the show from the inside out.  Beginning with the text.  Relationships, staging, blocking, singing and acting – even the technical elements - stem from the words.  The heart of the story informs all our choices, and it will absolutely resonate with our audiences.”

Double daily rehearsals are creative, demanding and rewarding, including choreography sessions with NY based choreographer, Michelle Bruckner.

This talented cast is a mix of visiting and local professional performers, along with three very talented students.  Visiting actors live together in LA housing, and several actors have returned for the strong bonds and unique experience they enjoy, at Heartwood.

Patrick Sylvester, who played the wild role of Caliban in “The Tempest” at Heartwood last summer, has returned this summer as a Prince.  “Having a space where we can unwind, theorize, and play together outside of rehearsal is an added advantage to our ensemble work. By living together, we grow to know one another on a tight level that usually doesn’t happen in regional theater work.”

As Sean Fleming notes, “This musical is always great fun for me to play, and this production promises to be a fun experience for all ages!”  Performances regularly sell out in the Poe Theater, particularly for musicals – reservations very strongly recommended.

Eight performances (including one matinee) will run July 13-22, in the Parker Poe Theater at Lincoln Academy, 81 Academy Hill Road.  Student tickets are $5, adults $30; except Wednesday, July 19, which is $20 night.  Full details at www.heartwoodtheater.org, email info@heartwoodtheater.org or phone 563.1373.  

Sponsors include Season Sponsor Bath Savings Institution, Mainstage Production Sponsor Granite Hill Estates, Season Student Ticket Sponsor Colby & Gale, and show sponsors: Peapod Jewelry, HM Payson and The Lincoln Home.