Venture ‘Into the Woods’ With Brewster Theater Co.

The ensemble of “Into the Woods.” Photos by Stacy Dumont.

The Brewster Theater Company is bringing to its stage the Tony-award winning musical “Into the Woods” – the story of familiar classic fairytale characters and their quests to make their wishes come true, only to learn that wishes sometimes have unforeseen and unpleasant circumstances. 

The musical will be presented at the Theater at Drew Methodist Church, 28 Gleneida Ave., Carmel, on Fridays, July 17, 24, and 31 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays, July 18 and 25, and Aug. 1 at 7:30 p.m.; and Sundays, July 26 and Aug. 2 at 2 p.m.

Tickets are available at www.brewstertheater.org and at the door. (Reservations are recommended.)

“Into the Woods” is directed by Ben Kistinger of Carmel and conducted by Nate Brewster of Southeast. Joy Giuseffi of Patterson is the vocal director, Stacey Cohen of White Plains is the producer, and George Opfer of Yorktown Heights is the stage manager.

The show is costumed by C.J. Umbrino of Carmel, with set design by Ben Kistinger. 

“‘Into the Woods’ is a musical retelling of classic fairy tales, but with a real-world twist,” explained Kistinger. “It’s also a story that highlights the importance of community coming together. Our production is built and brought to life by our community of volunteers and pays homage to the beautiful woods around our area. It’s a perfect fit for the Brewster Theater Company season as we are venturing ‘into the woods’ of purchasing a new space for a theater – none of which would be possible without a strong community behind us all with the same wish to keep theater alive in Carmel.”

The large ensemble cast features Rachel McNamara of Mahopac; Umbrino, Ralph Barrone Jr., and Nicole Vosk of Carmel; Jason Styka of Patterson; Judy Brewster of Southeast; Steve Sylvia of Putnam Valley; and others from outside Putnam County.

“Into the Woods” is based on the music and lyrics of Stephen Sondheim and book by James Lapine. It is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International.