BWW Reviews: INTO THE WOODS at Firehouse Theatre

Known for its challenging music and intricate lyrics, written masterfully by musical theatre icon, Stephen Sondheim, INTO THE WOODS is a staple among theaters across the country. With nearly two dozen famous fairy tale characters, the show challenges audiences to think beyond "happily ever after," and to be careful what you wish for along the way. Although this forest is filled with wonderful creatures of all shapes and sizes, the "women of the woods" at The Firehouse Theatre bring both the heart and humor to this intimate production, now playing through May 3rd, 2015.

INTO THE WOODS is inspired by a choice selection of Brothers Grimm fairy tales. The story centers on a Baker (played by John Pfaffenberger) and his Wife (Elisa Danielle James) whose story collides with that of the neighborhood Witch (Christine Chambers), while attempting to start a family. Discovering a curse placed by the vindictive hag, the ill-fated couple find their fates linked with those of Cinderella (Bethany Lorentzen), Little Red Riding Hood (Sadie Leyva), Rapunzel (Mary Ridenour), and Jack (Jennings Humphries, who alternates the role with Joshua Hahlen) of Jack and the Beanstalk, and other famous friends.

As The Baker's Wife, Elisa Danielle James steals the show with her comedic timing. Returning to The Firehouse Theatre after a triumphant performance in THE DROWSY CHAPERONE, Ms. James proves charming, not only as a comedic actress, but as a versatile storyteller with an astonishing voice.

Equivalently, with her soaring soprano, Bethany Lorentzen is enchanting as Cinderella. Ms. Lorentzen's performance is honest and heartwarming, whether she's singing to birds or screaming at giants. Her tiny, yet graceful, frame also offers some priceless moments, as Cinderella fumbles-and tumbles-home from the ball.

Cinderella's stepsisters, Florinda (Nicole Neely) and Lucinda (Heather Sturdevant), find comic gold-even if not golden slippers-in their featured roles. Both ladies entertainingly approach every corner of the stage, finding the biggest laughs in even the smallest moments. Similar kudos are earned by Mary Ridenour, as Rapunzel, and Lucia Welch, as Cinderella's Stepmother.

Alternatively, the actress playing the Witch seemed altogether unfamiliar with her lyrics and tempos throughout the show. Although I was rooting for her in Act One where she struggled in her material, she was unable to recover as the show progressed. Hopefully this will improve as the performances continue.

I commend The Firehouse Theatre's production for standing alone amongst the film and Broadway incarnations of the show, but I must admit that there are challenges along their path that they've not fully overcome. In the tiny space, their scenery is chaotic and seemingly unsafe. With branches frequently poking actors and snagging their costumes, not to mention the obtrusive platforms which trip the hardworking actors, I found myself distracted (and sincerely concerned for their safety) throughout the evening. Also, director Jason Leyna has halted the already lengthy musical by allowing continuous blackouts and dramatic pauses between the twenty-five wordy musical numbers. Improved pacing would benefit the show tremendously.

Still, if you've never seen INTO THE WOODS on stage, there is much to love (and learn) about the distinguished tale at The Firehouse Theatre.

INTO THE WOODS performs at Firehouse Theatre in Farmers Branch from April 16th-May 3rd. Tickets and more information can be found online at www.thefirehousetheatre.com or by calling 972-620-3747.

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