The Stephen Sondheim classic "Into The Woods" made its way back to Broadway recently after a brief run at the Encores! stage.
Opening at the St. James Theatre last Sunday, "Into The Woods" recruited a star-studded cast including Tony and GRAMMY winners, nominees, break-out stars, and a whole bunch of Broadway veterans.
With its much-awaited comeback, the opening night of "Into The Woods" garnered rave reviews from Broadway critics and fans alike.
'Into The Woods' Broadway Revival After Encores! Production
In November 2020, theatre fans were elated after hearing that the Stephen Sondheim classic "Into The Woods" will return to New York as part of the Encores! series.
Last April 2022, Tony Award-Winning actor Neil Patrick Harris bagged the role of the Baker along with Sara Bareilles, Ashley Park, Heather Headley, Gavin Creel, and Julia Lester among others.
The Encores! Production received rave reviews, especially Harris' and Bareilles' team up as the lovely Baker and Baker's Wife. However, the show only ran from May 4-15, 2022.
Due to fan demand after the limited shows, the company has decided to transfer officially to Broadway at the St. James Theatre, with some of the Encores! cast reprising their role.
"Hamilton" alums Brian D' Arcy James and Philippa Soo will take over the role of the Baker and Cinderella while "Pippin's" Patina Miller was cast as the Witch and "Shuffle Along's" Joshua Henry plays as Rapunzel's Prince.
'Into The Woods' Rave Positive Reviews
The Opening Night for "Into The Woods" received very positive reviews - something a Sondheim classic has always brought forth every time it opens its curtains.
Despite the casting changes brought forth by the Encores! to Broadway transfer, The New York Times believed that the production's "humor, wonder and humanity have arrived intact."
For The Hollywood Reporter, it was the star-studded ensemble that seals the deal; alluding the show to be one of Sondheim's "most humorous" works, the cast was described to be "some of New York's finest musical-theater talents."
"A Sondheim revival with vocally superior, perfectly cast performers, intelligent direction and design, and a sizable orchestra? Sometimes wishes do come true," The Observer says.
Based on the reviews, the production's greatest strength besides the material was the on-point casting of the iconic fairytale characters and their standing-ovation-worthy interpretations - which kept the St. James Theatre packed every day since its opening last Saturday.
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