A Sondheim musical was an ambitious task for a new company, but there were many good moments in Ghostlight Theatre's "Into the Woods".
The local company was formed by wife and husband duo Esther and Corey Bruerton during the pandemic and has spent more than year gearing up for its big debut.
Finally, "Into the Woods" burst onto the West Gippsland Arts Centre stage on Thursday, June 8, boasting plenty of local talent.
Nathan Slevin was terrific as "The Baker", and showcased more than a decade of experience through considered characterisation and a great vocal performance. He worked well with the rest of the cast and successfully led the audience through the woods.
Other standout performers were Mitchell Cameron, as "Cinderella's Prince", Grace Elizabeth as "The Witch", and Olivia Exposito as "Cinderella". Cameron's performance in musical number "Agony" with co-star Adam Busico as "Rapunzel's Prince" was hilarious - and had audience members chuckling the whole way through.
The little leap he did every time he exited the stage was a nice touch.
Elizabeth and excellent comedic timing as "The Witch" and was a joy to watch, while Exposito delivered a great vocal performance as the hopeful and confused "Cinderella".
Teigan Bliss as "The Bakers Wife", Kaley Ward as 'Red Riding Hood", and Katelyn Watson as "Rapunzel" were great in their roles, as was Andrew Dove as the "Narrator".
The costumes looked fabulous and tied in well with the overall story, while many were straight out of a storybook, they were grounded in reality.
All actors looked fabulous on stage in meticulous hair and makeup - a special mention should be given to the stunning up-dos worn by Bliss and Exposito.
The wood scene backdrop used throughout the show looked excellent and appeared menacing when lit orange and red in the second act.
The "Giant" portrayed as a shadow on the backdrop was a wonderful idea.
As promised by production manager Rob Robson, the model cow "Milky White" stole the show whenever it appeared on stage, and the scene in which it had to eat several magical items was a highlight - the sound effects worked perfectly.
A special mention should be given to Amy Robson who did a terrific job with the props, especially Cinderella's birds.
Other highlights included "I Guess This Is Goodbye" by Daniel Hewett as "Jack", which was sung beautifully, and "Your Fault", which had well coordinated movement.
