INTO THE WOODS Music & Lyrics: Stephen Sondheim Book: James Lapine Director: Mykey Young Musical Director: George Baldwin. Junction 4 It’s hard to believe that it has been more than two and a half years since I last sat down to enjoy a Junction 4 production. I must say I’m not a big fan of the works of Mr Sondheim so this production of “Into the Woods” would have to be something special. I am happy to report that the company achieved this and more. This production was superb from the ingenious set through to the singing which was of the highest quality. Sondheim songs can be intricate for the best of us, but the company dealt with them seamlessly. Credit must go to the production team of director Mykey Young and musical director George Baldwin. Mykey’s slick direction kept the show running at a good pace to keep even us Sondheim cynics enthralled. A simple yet effective set also allowed the show to move along. Unbelievably George Baldwin is only nineteen, yet he controlled the orchestra with a maturity beyond his years. Further congratulations are in order, too, for bringing out great vocal performances from the cast. Now to the cast: there wasn’t a weak performance from anyone on stage. The acting and singing of difficult songs was top drawer. We were greeted at the opening of the show by the narrator who kept a steady ship until his demise. This was another solid performance from Chris Sandiford. We then met the Baker and his good lady, played by Karl Hugo and Emma Moore who were perfect in the roles working really well together. Cinderella appeared; Beth King gave a lovely performance both acting wise and vocally. She was joined by her wicked stepmother and
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