Encore for an extraordinary production
A collaboration between Smith’s Music and Theater programs brought Stephen Sondheim’s and James Lapine’s “Into the Woods” to Smith College’s Theater 14 to fortunate attendees last week. I have been in the Valley since 1980. This was the best student production I have ever seen.
Loud bravos to Director Daniel Kramer, co-director Tabitha Reid, Conductor Jonathan Hirsh, and Music Director Kate Saik DeLugan. Kudos also to set designer Alina Tschumakow, Costume Designer Kiki Smith, Lighting Designer Via Sussman, Sound Effects Designer Lara Dubin, and Sound Mix Designer Reed Shaw. Please note that some of these folks are students who worked, in my opinion, at professional levels.
I am still blown away by the amazing 20 member all-female cast, the 28-piece orchestra and crew. I want to note that even Broadway isn’t fielding 28-piece orchestras these days.
Neither cast nor orchestra missed a beat. This challenging work was a gift to the audience. I am sure that anyone fortunate enough to have attended will not forget this extraordinary production.
Barbara Wurtzel
Northampton