With all the stress and hair pulling that comes with finals season, you might want to slow your wheels down and take a walk “Into the Woods” as Concordia’s Theatre Department put on yet another star studded show called. “Into the Woods” encompassed a storybook interpretation of characters that mesh into a variety of storybook themes based on classic tales many of us knew growing up.  

Concordia’s Theatre Department put on a show to remember with a handcrafted set that  incorporated the cast's blood, sweat and tears. Much like the play, theatre students of the show created a behind-the-scenes environment that connected all cast and crew members together just like family. Like the story, they all had some connection to each other, in one form or another, said Christopher Aceves who starred as Narrator and Mysterious Man in the performance.

“We wanted to make sure our cast community was one that reflected positivity as well as safety,” said Aceves.

“Into the Woods” is a classic age-old performance that many directors and performers have created numerous adaptations. However, in a surprising twist, Concordia has opted to display “Into the Woods” closest to its purest most original form under the direction of Professor Lori Siekmann. 

“We wanted to go with a traditional production of ‘Into the Woods,’ no modernizations or adaptations. The show feels traditional but timeless at the same time. It’s beautiful!” added Aceves.

If there is anything in particular students and other audience members were able to resonate with from this production, it is that hard times don't last. “Know that when bad things happen, you are not alone, but you can’t just wait for your wish to come true. If you want something you have to go fight for it,” said Aceves.

Overarchingly, compassion and strength are interwoven throughout the performance on and off stage. It is truly a unique experience that students and faculty members should experience at least once.

“Into the Woods” will have three final shows. Watch at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 19 and 20, or at 2 p.m. for the matinee on Nov. 20. If “Into the Woods” sounds like the much needed break you have been itching to experience with finals season just around the corner, visit https://www.cui.edu/arts/theatre/events 

Tags: Alexander Carr

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