Into the Woods Reviews

Chicago Tribune - Highly Recommended

"...This isn't a concert-style staging and nor is it a copy of the Broadway revival; it's quite different. But it's still a very intimate experience that comes with a full appreciation of how the stakes in a good "Into the Woods" have to be life and death. We all know our giants in the sky and all worry about them."

Chicago Sun Times - Recommended

"...There’s a reason “Into the Woods” has been produced so often since its regional debut at the Marriott way back in 1990. With a mash-up of reconstructed fairy tales, Stephen Sondheim (music and lyrics) and James Lapine (book) crafted a nearly perfect show."

Chicago Reader - Highly Recommended

"...In a moment of national anxiety, I can’t think of a better blend of escapism and meaningful reflection than this dark fairy tale. Does everything work out fine in the end? “Not always,” says the Baker (Kevin Webb). But take heart: no one is alone."

Stage and Cinema - Highly Recommended

"...Kokandy’s production of Into the Woods directed by Derek Van Barham with music direction by Nick Sula is a clever reimagining of this Stephen Sondheim/James Lapine classic for a storefront theatre space. Most notably, this production reimagines the orchestrations for two grand pianos dropped right in the middle of the playing space. Piano players Ariana Miles and Evelyn Ryan we’re as much a part of the storytelling as any of the actors, reacting to the story unfolding around them, all while never missing a beat."

Around The Town Chicago - Highly Recommended

"...Most of the productions that I have seen were on normal stages, some full size and some storefront theaters, but what Kokandy Productions has produced is probably the most intimate of versions possible. They are doing the full scale musical in the lower level stage at the Chopin Theatre, which is almost like being in someone's family room with two grand pianos in the center. The only drawback to this particular space is that there are two huge supports that hold the first floor up that from time to time, depending on your seat location may be blocking the action, although you will hear every word spoken or sung."

Chicago Theatre Review - Highly Recommended

"...This magical production is about the consequences of what happens when wishes are fulfilled, learning what it means to grow up, accepting responsibility and recollecting the fragile relationship that exists between a parent and a child. This production, thanks to some great performances, excellent singing and Derek Van Barham's wise direction, will touch the heart and charm the child out of any cynical grownup. Everyone should take a walk INTO THE WOODS because audiences are sure to leave the forest thinking, "I Wish.""

Buzz Center Stage - Recommended

"...I’ll admit it: I knew little about “Into the Woods” before seeing the new production at Chicago’s Chopin Theatre. I’m not particularly fond of the composer, Stephen Sondheim. I’d bailed early watching the 2014 film with Meryl Streep. So I challenged myself to find out why it is so popular. And now I know: it’s really good."

Third Coast Review - Recommended

"...The show's story is Sondheim's answer to the old fairytale question: What happens after you get your wish? For Cinderella... for Jack (of Beanstalk fame)... for Little Red Riding Hood... for Rapunzel... for princes... for wicked witches... and for two new characters, a baker and his wife... getting what you want isn't always the end of the story or a glittering perfect future. Instead, it leads to unexpected challenges and some moral dilemmas. For all the show's characters, wishes come with a price."

PicksInSix - Recommended

"..."Into the Woods" is truly an ensemble piece, much like the great "Sweeney Todd," and the actors need to be on their game to compliment each other doing the same. The vocal work is quite dazzling. There were standout moments - Madison Kauffman offers a simultaneously vulnerable and strong Cinderella who becomes a Princess not always willing to rule; Kevin Webb's Baker is achingly tender and confused and ultimately learns his lesson well about fatherhood; Stephanie Stockstill as the Witch lovingly chews every bit of scenery as a proper witch should; and August Forman's Narrator is a calming, sometimes even charming influence amid all the chaos that boils up in 'the woods.'"

Splash Magazine - Highly Recommended

"...Kokandy Productions has hit a home run with its revival of the classic musical Into the Woods. You get an amazing cast of actors, singers, and musicians. You also get memorable songs, music and characters, while hoping everyone gets a happy ending in their fairytale."

NewCity Chicago - Highly Recommended

"...There’s not a weak link in this cast. Everyone is up to both the challenge of Sondheim’s music and the dark humor of James Lapine’s book. Webb and Madison Kauffman were wonderful in Theo Ubique’s version of Sondheim’s “A Little Night Music” earlier this year, and they are also standouts in “Into the Woods.” Webb is touching as a man who doesn’t realize how much he needs his wife. As Cinderella, Kauffman exudes innocence and joy—she really does just want to go to the festival and could take or leave the prince."