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Regional Reviews: Florida - West Coast Into the Woods Also see Bill's review of [title of show]
Into the Woods is an ensemble piece and Manatee Players has fielded a very strong cast. Outstanding among the cast are Diane Dawson, making a welcome return to the stage after becoming a mother herself, as the Baker's Wife; Brian Chunn as the Baker; Rita Mazer as Jack's Mother; Kyle Ann Lacertosa as Little Red Riding Hood; and Sarah Cassidy as Cinderella, finally with an opportunity to show off her glorious upper register. In an odd bit of casting, Lacertosa is an adult playing a child—yet completely believable—while 10-year-old Judah Woomert is cast as The Narrator, a role that has most often been double cast with the Mysterious Man. Unfortunately, this casting is not entirely successful because young Mr. Woomert does not mic well, so his words are not as clear as I would wish (also a bit of a problem with his performance as Ralphie in the Players production of A Christmas Story). His acting of the part is lively and involved. Artistic Director Rick Kerby has done a wonderful job keeping this complex musical clear for the audience. With the ability to cast all parts separately, the story is clearer here than it has been other in other productions. Although the adaptation to film was remarkable, it is wonderful to have all the cut material, which adds much emotional depth. Kerby is aided by extremely evocative sets by Donna Buckalter. In the opening sequence, three books ("Cinderella," "The Baker and his Wife," and "Jack and The Beanstalk") open up to create the various homes, and later all set pieces required are built from books. Costumes by Becky Evans and lighting design by Mike Wood complete the technical elements of the show. The excellent band is directed by Aaron Cassette on keyboard, with Christine Allen-Bruno on second keyboard, Teri Booth on reeds, Victor Mongillo on trumpet, and John Januszewski playing percussion. They keep Sondheim's complex score lively, enabling fine singing from the cast. Manatee Players presents Into the Woods at Manatee Center for the Performing Arts through March 1, 2015, at 502 3rd Ave W., Bradenton; 941-748-0111, manateeplayers.com. Cast: Director and Choreographer: Rick Kerby
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