I was mesmerized when I first heard the music to Into the Woods in college. The genius of Stephen Sondheim is astounding, and the score is beautiful and so thoughtfully done. Into the Woods is a mashup of the Grimm Fairy Tales featuring Cinderella, Jack in the Beanstalk, and Little Red Riding Hood. Add in a witch, a baker and his wife, a couple of wolves, and a giant, and our story has become a cacophony of adventure. When the lights come up, and we hear Cinderella’s “I Wish,” we are off into the woods for the first time of many for the evening.
As we travel deeper and deeper into these woods, it becomes plain to see that the woods are really just an allegory for their life journey as they chase what they are searching for. Each character is focused on their one true wish and will go to any lengths to fulfill it. One by one, the characters are met with temptation, greed, and finally, heartbreak and grief. It becomes increasingly apparent that sometimes when they get what they want, it isn’t what they are searching for. Because of this, each character feels loss and suffering due to the consequences of their actions. As we come to the conclusion of the show, three things resonate with me:
- We finally see a glimmer of hope in the fact that we are not alone. As Christians we can find solace in the fact that God is always there and is always faithful. Our journeys may get dark, but God will never leave us halfway through the woods.
- We should choose our paths thoughtfully.
- Family comes in all different shapes and sizes.
True family welcomes you home with open, loving arms when you stray too far from the path. As I write this, I would be remiss not to mention that we have that family here at CCA. It has been evident this very weekend. I have witnessed an outpouring of love for one of our very own in crisis. It has been a beautiful thing to watch an overwhelming outpouring of love and generosity. It is an honor to be part of such an incredible family and an honor to direct such a talented cast. I am so proud of them and their impeccable work ethic. You do not want to miss this show!
Get your tickets here to journey with us Into the Woods March 21-23, 2024.
Enjoy the show, and remember, through God’s grace, we are not alone.
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