Into the Woods We Go!

Second Baptist School’s seventh and eighth graders brought their favorite fairytale characters to life as they performed Into the Woods, Jr. this past weekend. In three shows on Friday and Saturday, the cast and crew of nearly fifty students transformed the SBS C Gym into a storybook page, telling a tale about what happens when "happily ever after” takes a twist.

Adorned with mossy trees and charming castle facades, the spellbinding stage beckoned audience members to their seats and invited viewers on a fascinating journey. To break a cruel curse preventing them from having children, the baker and his wife must venture into the woods to obtain a cow as white as milk, a cape as red as blood, hair as yellow as corn and a slipper as pure as gold.

This reimagined fairytale follows the couple’s journey through the woods as they encounter various familiar characters, including Little Red Riding Hood, Cinderella and Jack, each pursuing their own desires. Despite the obstacles they encounter throughout their journey, each character fulfills their wish and learns the value of perseverance in the face of hardship.

When reflecting on the students’ performance, director, Cole Ryden, expressed how proud he is of the cast and crew, stating that “this show was more musically challenging than previous middle school productions.” He went on to say that “this show required a lot of patience and practice” from the students, complementing the cast and crew for making the show possible through their commitment and dedication. Production Assistant, Jenna Thompson '19, remarked on the students' ability to perform a show "that's historically known for its challenges" and commended the students for their diligence and artistry.

Whether cloaked in enchanting princess gowns or elaborate cow costumes, each student dazzled the audience from start to finish with charming melodies and captivating choreography. After countless rehearsals and months of preparation, the hard work of our students paid off as their talent shone on stage, showcasing that pushing through challenges always reaps a reward.