A Knight Theatre Knockout

The Knight Theatre's production of "Into the Woods" captivated students and members of the De Pere community with its superb and cleverly done performance. For five nights, the musical not only provided entertainment, but it also centered itself around themes of family and happiness. Marla Jacob '10, the musical's student director, clearly exceeded everyone's expectations.This was the first time a musical had been rehearsed over winter break, meaning that students involved in the musical had to return to campus weeks earlier before school reconvened. Jacob stated that the musical involved a great deal of hard work as rehearsals went for eight hours every day, but that a bond formed between the cast members, resulting in great chemistry on stage. Their hard work was clearly evident!

The musical presented comedy while trying to draw out major life lessons. For example, it teaches that a person never seems to be truly satisfied with what they have. Once they get what they want, they want even more.

The show mainly revolves around the baker, played by Seth Wanta '10, and his wife, Elizabeth Sauter '10, who are barren due to a family curse. The town witch, played by Tanya Pollard '11, offers the chance to remove the spell from the baker and his wife, which sends the couple into the woods for four specific items: a cow as white as milk, a cape as red as blood, hair as yellow as corn, and a slipper as pure as gold. While in the forest trying to fetch these items, the two come across characters from popular fairy tales, including Cinderella, Prince Charming, and Little Red Riding Hood. It was amazing and hilarious how all of the characters intertwined. Throughout the play, the concept of family constantly shows up. For instance, SNC student Katelyn Webster '11, who has been to other musicals and plays on campus, loved the "dynamic" between Jack and his mother.

As a spectator, I could not imagine any other actor playing a different role. The actors truly allowed themselves to put 100% into their character, making them come alive. I also enjoyed the songs included in this musical. The actors, no matter how tired they were from running around that stage, still showed energy in all their singing. The wild energy that spurted out from all the actors definitely impressed its audience.

Mr. and Mrs. Ron Starkey, members of the De Pere community, agreed that the casting was well-done. The two loved the facial expressions of Little Red Riding Hood, played by Molly Maher '12. Likewise, Sauter's performance as the baker's wife had "definite stage presence."
"This is my third time seeing the show, and it keeps getting better," said audience member Eric Ming '10. "I like the mixture of comedy with suspense."
"I think the show was a great show for all," stated Kelly Roberts '11. "Five out of five stars for sure. It is the best show for Knight Theatre. The witch, Tanya Sue [Pollard], was my favorite."
SNC student Pat Bier '09 was impressed that students were able to put on such a "high-quality production."

"Into the Woods" is one show that those of all ages can enjoy. It has an easy story line to follow, and the comedy gets better each time you see it. The songs are sung marvelously, and the actors stay right on cue. Musicals like this will keep audiences coming back for more. The cast and its director have a great deal to celebrate. Jacob reminded her cast to have fun, and, truly, these actors took her advice, allowing those attending the musical to see a well-done, one-of-a-kind performance.