I've seen this show several times over the past two years, but I almost never miss a Community Theatre Players (CTP) musical, so here I am at the Lake Placid Center for the Arts (LPCA) waiting for Stephen Sondheim's Into the Woods to begin.

As I wait, I think back to the first time I saw this play. New York City, Bernadette Peters. I'm with my husband and his friend who adores Sondheim. At this point in my life, I was still on the fence about Stephen S. I'd grown up immersed in Rodgers & Hammerstein and Lerner & Loewe and was still not sure about this modern musical maker. But by the end of the show, I was hooked.

Since then, I've seen many a community theatre production of this fractured musical fairy tale. Last year, my son's high school performed it with my son as The Baker, so I had to let go of a lot to be able to enjoy the production ahead of me.

But enjoy it I did. The CTP "woods" set is striking. The peopled trees are outstanding and it is apparent much thought and care have gone into the costuming. I especially like the Wolf's costume, Granny's bed, and Matt Sorensen's gruff portrayal of the hungry wolf.

It is opening night for this production which includes some novices to the stage. It is obvious from audience reaction that there are many people here who have never seen the show before and it's always fun to experience a show with first-timers. The audience is light on little ones since most folks have been made aware that these fairy tales take an unpleasant turn in Act II. Here's what the company had to say in the press release for the show: "What begins as a lively irreverent fantasy becomes a moving lesson about

community responsibility and the stories we tell our children. Some material may not be suitable for young children."

Sunny Rozakis is the director as well as the onstage Cinderella. The cast is all local folks, many of whom I know personally, with some of Saranac Lake's Pendragon Theatre artists sprinkled in. Angel Marvin is The Baker's Wife. Over the years, I have directed her, she has directed me, and we've even shared the stage on occasion. Her scene with Cinderella's Prince in this production is especially lively and fun.

The actors are well cast and the audience is eager to stay and meet cast and crew afterwards at the opening reception in the lobby of the LPCA. The food is catered and it is delicious. I can tell others share my opinion because the crowd doesn't thin out for another 20 to 30 minutes.

There are three more performances of CTP's Into the Woods at LPCA next weekend. It is wonderful entertainment and beautifully produced.

For more information and upcoming arts events, call the LPCA at 518-523-2512 or visit online www.LakePlacidArts.org

--Kathleen Recchia has been enjoying the arts in the Adirondacks for about 20 years—both as observer and participant (acting, directing, and producing). She also enjoys cross-country skiing, juggling, and hosting visitors to the area at her bed & breakfast in Jay.