SLS Communications

Year after year, the St. Luke’s Theater puts on a memorable production that lingers in the minds of viewers thanks to eye-capturing sets, melodic voices working in harmony with musical compositions, and brilliantly mastered acting. This year’s show, Into the Woods, presents a series of notable fairytales entangled within the journey of a baker and his wife. The shows this year will take place at 7:00 PM on February 23, as well as on February 24 at 2:00 and 7:00 PM. 

The show’s history began with the originally published book written by James Lapine; the story took its shape as a musical with the addition of Stephen Sondeim’s music and lyrics. The show premiered on Broadway for the first time in 1987 on November 5th at the Martin Beck Theatre. The musical traveled across the world featuring various cast members: some include Kim Crosby, Chip Zien, and Joanna Gleason.

Elissa Tobin ‘26, who is playing the role of Lucinda explained the auditioning process, what viewers can expect, and her personal experiences. She explained the audition process, a workshop for designated sections within a group. Additionally, each individual performs a prepared song and scene privately. Then comes callbacks, before the final roles are revealed. 

Tobin described the trajectory of the musical, and what she is looking forward to. In addition to the “beautiful set and design,” she emphasized her enthusiasm for the  “prospect of an adventure.”

Tobin discussed not only her own role, but the excitement she has to bond with her fellow cast members. From her past experiences, she discussed the variety of Into the Woods through the greater quantity of roles in relation to the increased amount of participation.

Moreover, she discussed her excitement to get to know the cast; with the immense amount of time spent with cast members, she acknowledged the special bond between newfound friends with “friendships that last forever.” 

However, due to the dates of the musical falling near March exams, Tobin discussed the occasional difficulties of balancing performing with academics. 

“At a glance, it doesn’t seem as intense as athletics; however, as you approach the performance itself, the commitment increases, especially with March exams.” 

With rehearsals spanning far into the evening, the absence of President’s Day break, as well as the occasional weekend rehearsal, Tobin acknowledged the initial intimidation. She explained that despite this, the musical is just as enjoyable; especially once you begin to grasp a balance.  

Despite being a freshman new to St. Luke’s, Tobin was able to experience the incomparable bond between her cast members in last year’s musical, Little Women, in which she played the role of Amy March.

Given her history of acting, Tobin emphasized the overall enjoyment of the unique buzzing energy before shows and the anticipation throughout the process. Tobin stated that the musical is “hard not to enjoy…Even if you don’t act regularly, it is a fun experience.”

From her involvement, Tobin expressed her gratitude for the possibilities presented to her and her fellow cast members each season: “Each show is a different opportunity to expand skills.” 

Taking into consideration the unbreakable bonds, unlimited opportunities, and overall excitement, Tobin expressed her passion to share the musical with the St. Luke’s community: “So much emotion – that is the best part.”