FORT LEE, Va. – The Lee Playhouse theater group here opens its 2022-’23 season Nov. 11 with the first performance of “Into The Woods,” a Stephen Sondheim musical starring volunteer actors from the local community.
Additional shows are scheduled for Nov. 12, 17, 18, 19, 25 and 26 at 8 p.m.; Nov. 13, 20 and 27 at 3 p.m.; and Nov. 19 at 2 p.m. All performances are open to the public.
“Into The Woods” won three Tony Awards during its Broadway run in the late ‘80s. It is widely considered as Sondheim’s most popular musical. The storyline is extracted from a book written by James Lapine. It brings well-known fairytale characters together in a presentation described as a “timeless, yet relevant, retelling of our childhood favorites.”
The story follows a baker and his wife who wish to have a child; Cinderella, who wishes to attend the King's Festival; and Jack, who wishes his cow would give milk. When the couple learns they cannot have a child because of a witch's curse, they set off on a journey to break the spell. Eventually, everyone’s wish is granted, but the consequences of their actions return to haunt them. The overall story has received rave reviews for being presented in a manner that’s both enchanting and touching.
Playhouse veterans Evan Nunery (playing the role of the Baker), Greta Francy (his wife), Taylor Baltimore (the Witch), Shannon Schilstra (Cinderella), Zachary Fortune (Jack), and Nancy McMahon (Jack’s Mother) lead the 22 member cast.
The show is directed by Frank Foster. Assisting him are musical director Travis West and choreography director Suzi Redling. Other members of the creative team are Donna Taylor (costumes), Gabriel Beard (lighting), John Redling (sound design), and Joel Furtick (hair and makeup). Kathy Dowling serves as the production’s stage manager.
Tickets are $18 for adults and $8 for youth. A discounted season ticket package also is available. For reservations and other information, call the box office at 804-734-6629.
Additionally, anyone who is not a DOD ID cardholder and is accessing Fort Lee for the first time will need to be vetted at the Visitor Control Center adjacent to Lee Avenue Gate. The Lee Playhouse Box Office manager can assist with this process; however, individuals requesting that support need to contact him no later than four days before the performance they’re planning to attend. His phone number is 804-720-0163.
Upcoming theater group shows include “A Raisin in the Sun,” to be presented in February, and “Mama Mia!” scheduled for a May production run. The Lee Theater, building 4300, is located at 1100 Mahone Ave., next to the Burger King restaurant.
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