SEARCY — Center on the Square in Searcy is preparing to perform Into the Woods Jr., an intertwining of children’s fairy tales, June 22-25.
Kara Treadwell, director of the musical, said characters include Cinderella, Rapunzel, Little Red Riding Hood and Jack from “Jack and the Beanstalk.”
“There are valuable lessons learned by each character as they experience different things in the woods. There will be singing, dancing, awesome costumes and set, and a lot of hard work,” Treadwell said.
“Into the Woods is a Sondheim musical, which means the music is very advanced. We’re doing the junior version, so it has been simplified for the kids, but the rhythms and pitches are still more difficult than your average children’s musical,” Treadwell said.
Treadwell said she believes the kids and directors have what it takes to pull off the performance.
The ages of the performers range from kids who are just able to read to recently graduated high school seniors, she said.
“I’m most excited about the kids having the opportunity to each develop a unique character. The show is full of many vibrant personalities and solos, so many of the kids get to experience what it’s like to have a lead,” she said. “They’re going to grow so much in this process.”
Treadwell said the performance is unique because many kids get the chance to shine.
“We’re also taking an artsy approach to the forest and some of the flashbacks. We’re experimenting with different dance styles and teaching the kids vocal variety. It’ll be one of the most challenging musicals they’ve had in a while,” she said.
Connie Brown, executive director of Center on the Square, said the center provides a place for young, aspiring thespians to practice and hone their talents.
Brown said there are three KidStage sessions at Center on the Square each year.
“This musical centers on a baker and his wife who wish to have a child, Cinderella, who wishes to attend the king’s festival; and Jack, who wishes his cow would give milk,” Brown said.
“When the baker and his wife learn that they cannot have a child because of a witch’s curse, the two set off on a journey to break the curse and wind up changed forever,” she said.
Brown said performances will take place at Center on the Square at 7 p.m. June 22, 23 and 24; and at 2 p.m. June 24 and 25.
No meals will be served with the shows.
Tickets cost $13, and all funds go toward operational expenses to keep the theater open, she said.
“Community theater is a way for people to come together with a common goal and common interests and use their many diverse talents to produce a product that is meant to entertain, inform and inspire,” Treadwell said.
Treadwell said KidStage provides the tools for confidence to the kids who perform.
“I honestly wish more people would take the time to get involved. Being able to express yourself in such a unique way and in an environment that cultivates growth is addicting,” she said.
Kids are learning skills in public speaking and proper projection, she said.
“They’re also learning, through the exploration of character and motivation, empathy for other people. They’re learning how to work together to problem-solve, think on their feet and be encouraging in the process,” Treadwell said. “It’s a way to trick kids into learning seven or eight different things all at once while giving them a voice.”
Treadwell said Center on the Square receives help from many sponsors and private donors who provide props and set pieces.
Community theater forces us to talk face to face with local business owners and meet people we wouldn’t normally meet, she said.
“We have people from all different social classes, ages, religious affiliations, jobs and schools. We learn how to put aside our differences and work together toward a common goal. That’s powerful,” Treadwell said.
Into the Woods Jr. is a lyrically rich retelling of classic Brothers Grimm fables, Brown said.
“With unforgettable roles, minimal dancing and no chorus, Into the Woods Jr. showcases a medium-sized ensemble of talented singers and actors,” Brown said.
Staff writer Kayla Baugh can be reached at (501) 244-4307 or kbaugh@arkansasonline.com.