CYPA kicks off their 2019-2020 season with Stephen Sondhiem’s “Into the Woods.” The musical is a twist on many classic fairytales, including; Cinderella, Rapunzel, Jack and the Beanstalk and Little Red Ridinghood. 

 The first act follows a baker and his wife as they journey to reverse the curse put on them by a witch. The second act has a darker feel to it as it differs from the traditional stories we have all heard growing up, and instead shows what happens when you get what you wish for. 

 Junior Sarah Kruza, who played Florinda in the production said, “ The show represents how fairy tale endings don’t exist even when it seems like it does, and you kind of have to be careful with the way you act because it can come back to bite you.”

This show was different from other shows because there was not just one or two main characters but, a large number of big parts. 

“The best thing about the show was working with everyone and being able to play off each other while performing,” said Kruza. 

“Into the Woods”  also featured students from all grade levels. 

Freshmen Zack Smith, who played Milky White, said “It has been really fun to act and be out there and express myself.” 

Since there was need for animals, students cast had to learn how to maneuver puppets. 

“I’m the cow, and in the costume I can’t see what is happening around me so I have to be led on and off stage so I don’t fall,” said Smith. 

In every musical there are songs that stick out, these are usually because they have some sort of meaning within the story or are just catchy. Either way “Into the Woods” has its fair share of memorable songs. 

Junior An Lai, who portrayed the witch said, “ The Witch’s Lament is a favorite because it is a time where you realize what is happening, and then Last Midnight because it’s a classic.” 

As “Into the Woods” closes, “Mary Poppins” begins. If interested, CYPA is holding auditions for their next show on December 10. 

“Keep trying no matter what because even if you don’t get in the first time or the second, you will get there. You just have to never give up,” said Lai.