Title: Into the Woods
Author: Stephen Sondheim
First published January 1, 1987
160 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780930452933 (ISBN10: 0930452933)
Rating: 4.26
Overview
“An exquisitely crafted masterpiece that seamlessly blends whimsical storytelling with profound social commentary. Into the Woods is a refreshing delight that transports readers into a world of enchantment, while also challenging them to question the very foundations of our society.
A true gem that delights and provokes in equal measure.” – Reviewed by a Literary Critic.
About the Author
Stephen Joshua Sondheim was a talented musical and film composer and lyricist from America. Throughout his career, he achieved great success and was awarded numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, several Tony Awards (more than any other composer), multiple Grammy Awards, and a Pulitzer Prize.
He is often referred to as the Titan of the American Musical.
Sondheim is best known for his amazing compositions and lyrics, which include A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Company, Follies, A Little Night Music, Sweeney Todd, Sunday in the Park with George, Into the Woods, and more. He also wrote the lyrics for and .
From 1973 to 1981, he served as the president of the Dramatists Guild.
Editoral Review
Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods is a veteran in the world of musical theater, having made its debut on Broadway back in 1987. The musical has since become a beloved classic and inspired numerous adaptations, including a Tony Award-winning revival in 2002 and a Disney movie adaptation in 2014.
Known for its dark twists on classic fairy tales, the musical explores themes of growing up, responsibility, and the consequences of our actions. Into the Woods follows a group of familiar fairy tale characters as they journey into the woods to achieve their deepest desires.
Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack the Giant Slayer, and Rapunzel each have their individual plotlines that eventually intersect, resulting in a shared destiny that ultimately leads to a devastating tragedy. Along the way, they meet new characters and encounter obstacles that force them to question their motivations and values.
Sondheim’s skillful lyrics and music weave together a tapestry of emotions and moral dilemmas that leave audiences spellbound. The songs are catchy and witty, but they also pack a punch, delivering messages about the importance of community, the dangers of selfishness, and the necessity of sacrifice.
One of the most impressive aspects of Into the Woods is the strength of its characters. Each one is fully fleshed out, with their own hopes, fears, and struggles.
Cinderella, in particular, undergoes a fascinating transformation, evolving from a passive damsel in distress to a strong, independent woman who takes charge of her own fate. Another standout feature is the vividness of the setting.
The woods are brought to life with stunning detail, from the twisted trees to the eerie shadows. The sense of danger is palpable, making it all the more thrilling when the characters bravely trek through it.
However, there are some points worth mentioning that may detract from the overall experience. The pacing can be a bit uneven, with some scenes feeling rushed while others drag on longer than necessary.
Additionally, some of the morals can come across as heavy-handed or even contradictory, which may leave some viewers feeling confused or unsatisfied. Despite these minor drawbacks, Into the Woods remains a classic piece of theater that has stood the test of time.
It is a must-see for anyone who loves music, fairy tales, or thought-provoking stories that challenge our perspectives on life. The themes explored in the musical are just as relevant today as they were in 1987, reminding us that the human experience is a timeless one.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars.
