Rosary High School presents 'Into the Woods'
Enjoy a modern twist on classic fairy tales as Rosary High School presents "Into the Woods" Thursday through Sunday, Nov. 3-6 at Rosary's McEnroe Auditorium, 901 N. Edgelawn Drive in Aurora.
The cast, crew, and pit orchestra includes about 75 students from Rosary High School and Marmion Academy in Aurora. Music is provided by members of the Rosary Symphony Orchestra, the Rosary Chamber Orchestra, and the Marmion-Rosary Band, as well as several local musicians.
The musical team includes Megan Drahos, producer, vocal and pit director; director Laura Biancalana; and assistant director Ali Kordelewski. The Daily Herald caught up with the directors to find out more about the show.
Q. Why did you choose "Into the Woods" as your fall musical?
Megan Drahos. We thought "Into the Woods" was an excellent choice for our talented actors and musicians. Also, we knew this show featured many different named roles to showcase the abilities of our students. Lastly, we believe that this modern twist on several beloved Grimm fairy tales is entertaining while also examining complex themes such as the consequences of wishes, greed, ambition, loss, and perhaps most importantly, unconditional love and the power of the human spirit. The story and the music inspire us to confront our fears, accept mistakes, learn to trust and work together as a community.
Q. What have been some of the challenges in putting together this production? Please be as specific as possible.
Laura Biancalana. "Into the Woods" is a challenging show! Each character has a specific motive, and many stories are developed simultaneously, ultimately colliding into a wonderfully entertaining climax! Besides the complexity of the story, the staging is difficult, requiring multiple entrances, exits, and interactions all in one scene, as well as a number of special effects.
Drahos. Another challenge has been the time frame for putting on such a large-scale production. Auditions happened the week after school started, and we only had about eight weeks to put the vocals, blocking, choreography, and the set/tech elements together.
Q. What has been most rewarding or gratifying?
Drahos. It has been my great joy to see the actors growing into these complex characters and the pit musicians tackling this beast of a music score with hard work and passion.
Q. What criteria did you use for casting the lead roles? Was this a difficult, or easy show to cast?
Drahos. This show was challenging to cast. The intricate Sondheim score requires outstanding vocal and rhythmic ability. We had a large amount of talent. The character development was another large part of the selection process. Throughout the process, the performers displayed substantial talent and spirit.
Q. What do you think audiences will like best about this show?
Biancalana. Sondheim is funny! And audiences like to see the familiar storybook characters. I also believe that audiences will be moved by the real life themes of loss, heartbreak, and the resilience of the human spirit.
Q. Anything else you'd like to share with readers?
Drahos. We also have some special events happening this show weekend. On Saturday, Nov. 5, the adults can enjoy a wine reception and hors d'oeuvres before the 7:30 p.m. show as well as desserts at intermission. The cost is $30. Preregistration is required; visit www.rosaryhs.com/musical or call (630) 896-0831. Also, we welcome everyone to join us for a family picnic with the cast on Sunday, Nov. 6 at noon. You will have a chance for autographs and pictures with the cast; the cost is $5 per person.
If you go
What: Rosary High School's production of "Into the Woods"
When: 6 p.m. Thursday, 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 3-6
Where: Rosary's McEnroe Auditorium, 901 N. Edgelawn Drive, Aurora
Tickets: $10 for adults and $8 for students and senior citizens.
Details: Order tickets at <a href="http://www.rosaryhs.com/musical">www.rosaryhs.com/musical</a> or call the school at (630) 896-0831.