REVIEW: Into the Woods

Unpopular opinion: I wouldn’t say I like Sondheim. I know I’m supposed to, and I can — objectively — recognize the level of talent and sophistication of his scores and lyrics. But I don’t love this show. And I don’t have to.

Nevermind that.

When CCM’s Sophomores and Juniors announced a student-led, socially-distanced outdoor production, I immediately clicked “Going” on the FaceBook invite. After all, it’s been months since I’ve seen any live theatre. And there’s something magical about watching the stars of tomorrow at CCM shine now, getting a glimpse of Broadway’s future.

Directed by Sammy Schechter and produced by Jake Waford (who also appeared in the cast as “Cinderella’s Prince” and “The Baker” respectively — and were terrific) took a minimal (probably zero) budget and managed to produce a professional-quality show despite the global pandemic. The professional lighting rig and sound system helped, but this fine cast's talent would have elevated any production to the stratosphere even without it.

(I had to go to work mid-show, so I was only able to see Act One, which disallowed me the pleasure of hearing the great Tracy Conner embody the voice of the Giant in Act Two. But I saw enough to assess this production properly.)

I especially enjoyed the work of Britta Cowan (“The Baker’s Wife”), with her…