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Culture Musicals

Review: Into the Woods

INTO THE WOODS by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine (Hart House Theatre, 7 Hart House). Runs to January 30. $28, srs $17, stu $12-$15. uofttix.ca. See Continuing. Rating: NNN

Whether you’re an Into The Woods aficionado or only know it from the recent film, you’ll find lots to sink your teeth into in this high-concept production of Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine‘s complex take on fairy tales.

Director Jeremy Hutton‘s ambitious staging for Hart House Theatre takes its cue from the ubiquity of cuckoo clocks in 19th-century Germany, where many of the tales originated. And, of course, there’s lots of emphasis in the show itself on time, from the opening words (“Once upon a time…”) to changes that happen at the stroke of midnight.

That explains designer Joe Pagnan‘s imaginative set, which replicates a cuckoo clock, complete with swinging doors, all manner of cranking/clanging sounds and costumes (by Michelle Tracey) that could have been sewn by a Tyrolean tailor.

It’s a shame the production doesn’t move along at a quicker pace, however. There’s a lot to pack in, and Hutton has chosen to include some oft-omitted numbers that are fascinating to watch but add to the running time. And Simon Rossiter‘s lighting design could be more nuanced.

Thankfully, Hutton has assembled some strong performers. Standouts include Colin Asuncion‘s sweet and unpretentious Jack, Saphire Demitro‘s characterful witch, and Hugh Ritchie and Chiano Panth‘s disarmingly charming princes.

Michelle Nash (Cinderella), James King (Baker) and Amy Swift (Baker’s Wife) boast fine voices but lack sparkle and spontaneity. The biggest problem, though, is Bradley Hoover as the show’s narrator/mysterious man. His wooden delivery and stiff diction frequently stop the show, and not in a good way.

Still, Hutton gets major points for the show’s concept, which pays off powerfully in the more serious second act. And having an actor play Jack’s cow (Maksym Shkvorets), whose hooves often help keep time, is a guaranteed way to milk some laughs.

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