'Enchanted April' set for Theatre in the Woods
A theater on a narrow road surrounded by woods, a Wizard-of-Oz-inspired set design and a 1920s ambience is all part of Theatre in the Woods' performance of the English classic "Enchanted April," opening on Friday.
Sponsored by the village of Riverwoods, "Enchanted April" is a romantic comedy about a group of English women who venture from London to Italy where they rent a villa.
"It's a great cast, great script, and we're having a great time performing it," said Jessica Lauren Fisher, one of the cast members. "It's difficult and fun and challenging and all sorts of different things all at once. It's a blast."
Donna Lubow co-founded Theatre in the Woods and is also the director and art director of "Enchanted April." She expanded the set design this year to two sets, instead of one. The first act in London is in dreary black and white, but once in Italy, everything is in bright colors. Her idea was inspired by "The Wizard of Oz" and presented a "scenic challenge," she said.
The eight-member cast and small crew have been rehearsing since May.
"I'm looking forward to having everything come together," Lubow said. "We're all up late and working hard everyday to get everything done, so my hope is that it will be fabulously wonderful."
Theatre in the Woods is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. They perform one big performance each summer and do children's programming throughout the year.
Lubow said Theatre in the Woods has come very far, including changing locations many times, before making Estonian House in Riverwoods its permanent home.
Theatre in the Woods began as outdoor theater, but has since moved inside, although Lubow said she still feels like she is in the woods considering Estonian House's rustic location.
"Enchanted April" will be performed July 17, 18, 24, 25, 31 and Aug. 1 at 8 p.m. and July 19, 26 and Aug. 2 at 5 p.m. Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door for $17, $15 for senior citizens and students. Estonian House is located at 14722 Estonian Lane in Riverwoods. Call (847) 914-0109 for tickets.