Carle Place students are heading into the woods for their newest fairy-tale musical.
The upcoming student-run production, Into The Woods, intertwines the lives of several fairy tale characters, including Cinderella, Rapunzel and Little Red Riding Hood. Each one has a wish, but they soon find that getting what they asked for has disastrous consequences for them and their community.
The play was first produced in 1986, with a film adaptation coming out in 2014. Director Pragna Krishnamurthy said she’s wanted to do a stage adaptation of the musical at Carle Place for a long time, and with many seniors graduating from the student-run theater group last year, and many talented underclassmen entering, this season was the perfect time.
“We have a new set of talent and we wanted to showcase them,” said Krishnamurthy, a 12th-grader who last year served as producer. “Into the Woods has a lot of parts, which is something we wanted. The show showcases everyone’s talent. It fit everyone.”
Two adults help with costumes and music, and administration and faculty also lend support. But as is the tradition with the annual student-run productions, the students ultimately run the show, from holding auditions, to coming up with choreography, marketing, building sets and more. There’s a spot for everyone at the show, whether a student’s talents lie in acting, lighting, set design or another area.
“It’s important to analyze your strengths and weaknesses to see where you best fit in,” said producer Logan Kelly. “For me personally, I’m not as inclined toward the acting part, but behind the scenes is where I can really get creative.”
Ninety students dedicate a majority of their summer to the show, with rehearsals beginning the second week of July and taking place almost every weekday until the September show.
Though it’s a huge commitment, Krishnamurthy said she wouldn’t trade it for anything.
“I love interacting with all these kids because I make so many friendships,” she said. “[I’ve seen] kids showcase their talents and come out of their shell. You see certain kids blossom and it’s so cool to see. Even though it takes up most of my summer, I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”
Into The Woods takes place at the Carle Place High School Auditorium, Sept. 8 and 9 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $10, $7 with a Carle Place student ID.
