Going "Into the Woods"

Going "Into the Woods"....

Adventures of a Royal Steward.....

Are you mad? 

That's been the common response when telling a few folk that I am going to be appearing at Cumbernauld Theatre as the Royal Steward in a production of Into the Woods with Cumbernauld Musical Theatre Society from the 24th to 28th of October.

People think you are mad because tackling anything by Stephen Sondheim,......and especially Into the Woods, which is something that few amatuer companies are brave enough to do. In fact, I only know of one other in close proximity to our own company that have tackled it since I returned to this fold back in 2017, but...........if you love a challenge then Sondheim is the guy to provide it.

So what is it that causes the mayhem? 

In the world of musical theatre, few names resonate as profoundly as Stephen Sondheim. His career spanned six decades and if he was in the business of rock and roll would have rivalled that of any of the icons on the hall of fame. He was that influential. HIs back catalogue left an idelible mark on the art form, and partly for that reason is why I am both mad to want to be part of it, as I am delighted to share a stage with an absolute belter of a cast. 

Yeah but what did he really do for musical theatre?

One of the primary reasons he stands out is for his innovative approach to lyrics. He raised the art of songwriting by mixing up his compositions with intricate wordplay, profound themes told through the voices of complex characters. 

The songs are not just catchy tunes but lyrical masterpieces that delve deep into human psyche. Look at something like "Send in the Clowns" (wait he did that?) Sondheim uses simple yet emotional lyrics to convey complex feelings of regret and longing. HIs ability to tell stories through lyrics, set a new standard in musical theatre.

It's a powerful style, which as a performer creates a real emotional connection with each song.

Yeah thats all well and good but what else did he do?

His talent for creating multi-dimensional characters is unparalleled. His characters aren't just stereotypical parts to play.....but flawed, loveable, relatable and often morally lacking a bit of certainty around right and wrong.

From Sweeney Todd to the Baker and Witch in "Into the Woods" his characters grapple with real life dilemmas and emotions. The depth adds a level of authenticity that hadn't previously been seen before in musical theatre.

His willingness to tackle bold and sometimes controversial themes set him apart. Addressing issues such as mental health, disfunctional relationships and societal pressures. If you look at "Assassins" it delved into the minds of historical figures who attempted to assassinate US presidents, offering a thought provoking exploration of American culture and violence. not quite a picnic in the park,if you pardon the pun.

Yeah, Yeah, but what else?

Sondheim was a bit of a pioneer in experimenting with musical structure. His works tend to challenge the traditional music conventions, using intricate time signatures, non-linear storytelling and complex harmonies. "Company" for example with its series of vignettes exploring the theme of marriage, deviated from the typical narrative structure of musicals paved the way for more unconventional storytelling in musical theatre.

Beyond his creative works. Sondheim was an advocate for education in the arts and his book "finishing the hat" is widely regarded as an essential on the shelf for aspiring lyracists, composers and theatre enthusiasts.

His willingness to share his knowledge and experiences has inspired countless artists and continues to shape the future of musical theatre.

Sondheims influence on musical theatre is testament to his unparalleled talent and creativity. His legacy lives on not only in the countless awards and accolades he receieved but in the hearts of those who have been touched by his music and his storytelling.

In short, am I mad to be doing Into the Woods?

I'd be mad not to.

"Into the Woods" by Cumbernauld Musical Theatre Society runs from the 24th to the 28th of October at the Cumbernauld Theatre.

Tickets on sale at the box office......clicky clicky the linky linky