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The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Phyllis Rogers Stone 2012-07-24 17:21:51

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Phyllis Rogers Stone 2012-07-24 17:22:38

If wishes were witches then beggars would fly.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by musicaltheatreman2 2012-07-24 17:54:34

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i get off of work at 6. do you think there will still be tickets left fortonights show if i went over to the park?? thanks

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by macnyc 2012-07-24 17:58:43

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As the Public Theater recently tweeted, talking about the standby line, "One can never say for sure, but it's always an option." That sounds like a message you'd get from a magic 8 ball.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by musicaltheatreman2 2012-07-24 19:02:21

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how long are the previews? when does the show
open?

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by jacobsnchz14 2012-07-24 19:22:39

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"Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine’s beloved musical INTO THE WOODS, the second show of The Public’s 50th Anniversary season at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park, will run for five weeks through Saturday, August 25, with an official press opening on Thursday, August 9."

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by jacobsnchz14 2012-07-24 20:16:53

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Updates from Twitter...

@mrtylermartins


@SimsJames
Why yes, that is Stephen Sondheim sitting in the audience for the first preview of Into the Woods. #sondheiminthepark #literally

@SimsJames


@denisohare
Ok. Not a cloud in sight. 1st preview of Into The Woods here we come.

@alisonleabender


@deputyknope


@susiednyc


@jxrxd

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by dtzumbrunnen 2012-07-24 20:45:11

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Walked by during Murphy's witch's rap - sounded flawless, and at a slower tempo than either of the recordings. It was kind of nice to be able to truly make out each vegetable in the garden, and impressive she could carry the phrase that much longer!

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by FANtomFollies 2012-07-24 20:46:14

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WOW that looks amazing! But it does look identical to the production in England, right?

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by bwayphreak234 2012-07-24 20:52:16

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Thanks for the picture, Jacob! How do you search for images on twitter?

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by jacobsnchz14 2012-07-24 20:54:44

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https://twitter.com/#!/search/realtime/into%20the%20woods

I try different search terms like "into the woods", "#intothewoods", "delacorte", etc.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by macnyc 2012-07-24 20:55:56

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I am so envious!

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by ljay889 2012-07-24 20:57:39

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Walked by during Murphy's witch's rap - sounded flawless, and at a slower tempo than either of the recordings. It was kind of nice to be able to truly make out each vegetable in the garden, and impressive she could carry the phrase that much longer!

Hmmm. Does it still sound like a rap though? Out of three Witch's on recording, Bernadette is only one who actually sounds like she's rapping.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by qolbinau 2012-07-24 20:58:12

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How well can you hear the show from just 'walking by'? It's interesting to think people could just stand outside and listen, lol.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by E.Davis 2012-07-24 21:03:27

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Well it is an outdoor theatre, isn't exactly sound proof.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Leadingplayer 2012-07-24 21:12:19

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They have loud speakers outside. You can sit in the outer lobby and listen. I know I "listened" to Pacino in Merchant of Venice.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by ljay889 2012-07-24 21:24:41

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Are there benches in the outer lobby? Will they allow you to stay there and listen?

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Leadingplayer 2012-07-24 21:35:55

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Yes there are benches. They let me sit for Merchant....not sure if they still do for this.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by willep 2012-07-24 21:38:29

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That set is gorgeous. It alone is enough to make me want to see this show.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by bwayphreak234 2012-07-24 21:39:26

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If I was in NYC, I would sit on the bench and listen to this show every night. If it is a public bench, there should be no problem!

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Matt Rogers 2012-07-24 21:40:51

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The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Leadingplayer 2012-07-24 21:41:57

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I sat on benches that were part of the theatre BUT even if they chase you from there I'm sure you could still hear it from the Public benches which are a little farther away.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by HeyMrMusic 2012-07-24 21:46:28

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It's not perfectly tight yet, the jokes don't all land, actors aren't always in sync with the music. Well, this is the first preview.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by jacobsnchz14 2012-07-24 21:46:43

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INTERMISSION UPDATES:

@DailyActor
RT @SimsJames: Intermission at INTO THE WOODS. Loved watching Stephen Sondheim crack up at Donna Murphy. Strong first preview!

@AlisonAlampi
This is a very interesting production of into the woods. I'm really into the concept! and OMGGGG Donna Murphy looks so fantastic!!

@jonj0nkwiakwia
Into the Woods is phenomenal totally the best production. Maybe even the most inventive stage and costumes I've ever seen. Go see it.

@NestorLaraBaeza
Into the Woods, intermission


@mrtylermartins
Donna Murphy is taking NO PRISONERS. Jessie Mueller is radiant. Sarah Stiles is a scene-stealer. Amy Adams is heartbreaking. #IntoTheWoods

@dramakim
Amy Adams is TINY you guys! #intothewoods

@ktflood
Just fyi Into the Woods in the park ppl, we got there at about 5.30 for standby & missed out by about 20-30 ppl. #intothewoods

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by qolbinau 2012-07-24 21:49:37

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Matt Rogers, are you insane? What an odd response. Obviously the quality of sound can be obstructed by objects, air particles (through distance, wind), reverberation etc. I do think it is a useful question to ask whether standing outside the theater and listening IS the same as being "fifth row center", as you apparently claimed it is. Apparently you have an issue comprehending language because no sarcasm was intended.

(To be clear, he has deleted his post I am responding to, it seems).

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by ShbrtAlley44 2012-07-24 21:49:46

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It's a hot mess right now. But I'm sure they'll tighten it.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Matt Rogers 2012-07-24 21:50:10

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How the hell are you people getting away with taking these pictures? When I was at HAIR, I tried to snap a picture of the set during intermission, and ten ushers literally swarmed. I was escorted out of the theatre and was not let back in until a security guared watched me dcelete the photo.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by HeyMrMusic 2012-07-24 21:51:22

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Lots of awkward transitions that will hopefully tighten. Not sure about the boy narrator yet. Jessie Mueller's voice is amazing.

I think it's over-choreographed. I guess many shows are these days.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Play Esq. 2012-07-24 21:56:17

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Already out?

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by IdinaBellFoster 2012-07-24 21:56:37

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Dying to hear about Murphy & Adams!!

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by bwayphreak234 2012-07-24 21:57:01

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What does the witch's costume look like? And does Cinderella have a nose ring and headphones like the Regent's Park version?

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Matt Rogers 2012-07-24 21:57:40

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Ye, I re-read your post and obviously I mis-read it, and I apologize.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by dtzumbrunnen 2012-07-24 22:00:59

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I was more "lingering" than walking by. When you've got two dogs with you it's easy to look like you're on a walk. I'd say it still sounded rap-like, but could you imagine it having someone beatboxing behind it? No.

There's also a quiet clearing behind the theatre on the steps up to Belvedere Castle. That's where I tend to stop to listen for a bit. Nowhere near as crowded there as it is down around the theatre.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Wynbish 2012-07-24 22:06:10

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Morgan James tweeted, "Question: HOW can you f-ck up "into the woods"?? I fear musicianship is dead in musical theatre. And acting, for that matter. #horrified"

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by bwayphreak234 2012-07-24 22:07:14

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ETA: Wynbish beat me to it

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by IdinaBellFoster 2012-07-24 22:07:56

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Also just saw Morgan James's tweet...

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Wynbish 2012-07-24 22:09:17

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She's allowed her opinion, but I am pretty sure that she did not love it.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Play Esq. 2012-07-24 22:12:31

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Seriously...who is Morgan James? She sounds like the theater-equivalent of Kathy Jenkins.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by aasjb4ever 2012-07-24 22:13:15

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Wynbish, after reading her tweet, I made the face of your avatar. Woah boy.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by qolbinau 2012-07-24 22:13:51

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Is that THIS Morgan James?

http://www.ibdb.com/person.php?id=480361

It seems so cringe-worthy for an understudy/ensemble performer of three highly criticised shows (Addams Family, Wonderland and Godspell) to proclaim the death of musical theatre acting with performances from such professionals as DONNA MURPHY, DENIS O'HARE, AMY ADAMS etc.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by E.Davis 2012-07-24 22:14:36

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Ouch...

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Wynbish 2012-07-24 22:15:32

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Don't forget that the same person who was in Wonderland and Addams Family trained at Juilliard. How the mighty have done bad shows.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by ljay889 2012-07-24 22:15:33

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Morgan James sounds like a you know what. Her three credits are three awful shows/productions. K.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by aasjb4ever 2012-07-24 22:16:11

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^Word.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Jordan Catalano 2012-07-24 22:16:55

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Well I don't know who she is but look at Ellen Greene's theatre credits. Credits don't always represent talent level.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by bwayphreak234 2012-07-24 22:16:57

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Interesting that someone who was in Wonderland and the most recent Godspell revival is talking about "dead musicianship" and bad acting...

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by ljay889 2012-07-24 22:19:34

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double

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Play Esq. 2012-07-24 22:19:57

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You want to cringe? Read this from her web page. Ugh...


---------
Morgan James is not just a great soul artist…or a great R&B artist, or even a great jazz artist. The classically trained vocalist is malleable enough to encompass several genres, while displaying vocals reminiscent of Motown-era greats, all the while making her mark on Broadway. Morgan is armed with the chops to blow people away, and the musicianship to craft every tune. Mix a bit of Nina Simone with Aretha Franklin, add the warmth of Eva Cassidy and the musical passion of Prince, and you will start to get an idea of what kind of artist Morgan James is. She has been called "utter perfection… her vocal expertise was almost painfully beautiful. She could sing every style and genre of music flawlessly." 

At home on the Broadway, concert and rock stages Morgan James is one of the country's most sought-after singers.  She is a versatile vocalist, easily maneuvering between genres. As a solo artist, she has played to sold-out crowds at popular NY nightspots such as Birdland, Dizzy's Club Coca-Cola at Lincoln Center, Dominion, Joe's Pub, Le Poisson Rouge, and Rockwood Music Hall.  (please check the Upcoming page for her current schedule!)

Her Broadway credits include the first-ever Broadway revival of Godspell (singing "Turn Back, O Man"), and the original casts of Frank Wildhorn's Wonderland (where she covered, and closed the Broadway cast playing, Alice), and The Addams Family, starring Nathan Lane and Bebe Neuwirth.  Regional theatre credits include leading roles at Barrington Stage Company, Paper Mill Playhouse, The O'Neill Theatre Center, and Arizona Theatre Company. Morgan was a featured soloist in Bernstein's MASS with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra (conducted by Marin Alsop) at Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center. She has also sung with the Utah Symphony. Click here for the full resume.

A veteran of commercials and voice-overs, in addition to her extensive theatre and concert career, she has participated in numerous workshops and readings of new theatre works.  Her discography includes the Broadway cast recordings of Godspell, Wonderland, The Addams Family, and Elf; and the concept albums of The Little Princess and Tears from Heaven, and is featured on several composer and artist albums.  (For complete discography, please visit the Media page.) She is a proud member of AEA, AFTRA, and SAG.

She is hard at work on her first EP, so stay tuned for music and updates! Thank you for visiting!

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Kad 2012-07-24 22:21:02

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That's a bitchy and unprofessional tweet regardless of credentials.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by IdinaBellFoster 2012-07-24 22:21:20

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To be fair, I think she's making that comment in context with the masterful piece they have been presented with.

Although, even if it's .1% as good as the Regents Park Production, it's 100% better then GODSPELL, ADDAMS FAMILY & WONDERLAND together.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by ljay889 2012-07-24 22:23:14

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Credits don't always represent talent level.

I agree, but she has no room to talk about the "death of musicianship and acting" when are three credits are GODSPELL, WONDERLAND, and THE ADDAMS FAMILY.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by adamgreer 2012-07-24 22:25:29

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Morgan James sounds bitter that she wasn't cast as Cinderella or something.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Play Esq. 2012-07-24 22:26:17

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Back on topic: can non-C (D? F?) list actresses in attendance please provide their input? There tomorrow, but I love first nighters reviews!!!

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Phyllis Rogers Stone 2012-07-24 22:27:24

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I just watched the Regent's Park production last night for the first time, and I did wonder while watching it, if it might be a little too British for Americans. There was a really sense of ... I dunno... it was just very British in its sensibility, especially in the section, with regard to people sacrificing for each other and the common good. I wonder how that will play here.

Anyway, I thought that whole production was just marvelous, and I think all the actors involved are up to the task of recreating it, so I wish them nothing but the best, bumpy first preview or not.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by jacobsnchz14 2012-07-24 22:27:32

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Other Twitter Updates:

@mrtylermartins
So... It seems that Jennifer Aniston and Anjelica Huston are here. I think. (It's hard to see through my tears.) #IntoTheWoods

@SusieD_NYC
Overheard at #IntotheWoods intermission: "This is so much better than other Shakespeare plays!" #culture @PublicTheaterNY

^^That one made me laugh!

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by dreaming 2012-07-24 22:28:21

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I'm with you, Kad. We all know who she is in the community and I feel like a certain level of professionalism-and indeed, that would include the censorship of what you say online. You never know who's reading it. Not saying she can't have an opinion, I just feel like it reeks of unprofessionalism to blast it online the way she did. (And it seems unduly cruel-they really didn't have a full dress rehearsal.)

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by jacobsnchz14 2012-07-24 22:29:58

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It would be awkward if she was in line or was planning to audition for Cinderella for the potential transfer since Jessie Mueller is in EDWIN DROOD.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by IdinaBellFoster 2012-07-24 22:31:40

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Matt Doyle to the rescue.

EDIT: my screencap isn't show up..it reads:

Matt Doyle ?@MattfDoyle
Really don't like seeing Broadway actors trashing other shows on twitter. Have a little tact. We're all in this together.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by jacobsnchz14 2012-07-24 22:33:24

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Nevermind, IBF added the tweet.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by dreaming 2012-07-24 22:35:06

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Good move, Matt. Way to call her out! Glad to see someone has a little CLASS.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Wynbish 2012-07-24 22:36:51

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Oh, people and their Twitters

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by E.Davis 2012-07-24 22:39:25

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Ms. James is going to learn a lesson out of this little post that I don't think she will like but will make her (hopefully) a better person and supporter of her peers in the future.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by bwayphreak234 2012-07-24 22:43:17

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It will be interesting to see if she tweets again after the show.
Anyways, back on track. Would someone who saw this tonight describe the costumes for the Witch, Cinderella, and Little Red Riding Hood?

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by WhizzerMarvin TrinaJasonMendel 2012-07-24 22:49:38

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After Morgan James did what she to "Turn Back O Man" in Godspell every night she should be ashamed.

I don't work in any aspect of the theater and have no aspiration to. I feel comfortable saying whatever I want about a show or performer. She should learn to save her criticism for private conversations.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by bwayphreak234 2012-07-24 23:00:02

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Her tweet is gone if anyone cares.

She just posted this though
And note: supporting my theatre community--which I DO--does not mean I have to *like* everything.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by jv92 2012-07-24 23:01:21

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Who IS this Morgan James character? She's tweeting about a bumpy first preview of a Sondheim-Lapine musical with Donna Murphy, Chip Zien, Dennis O'Hare, and Amy Adams when all she has on her Broadway resume is a mediocre musical, a bad musical and a bad revival of a mediocre musical?

Sounds like she'll be around for a LOOOONG time.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Sondheim_Geek 2012-07-24 23:04:27

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AND SHE'S MADE HER ACCOUNT PRIVATE. BAHAHAHAHA.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Phyllis Rogers Stone 2012-07-24 23:05:38

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Broadway people never ever learn when it comes to social media.

Anyhoo, any reports? Or is it still going on?

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by E.Davis 2012-07-24 23:05:53

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She seems to not realize just how strong her tweet was.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Wynbish 2012-07-24 23:06:12

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Back to the subject: I think I'm most curious about how Amy Adams did.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by IdinaBellFoster 2012-07-24 23:08:17

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Agreed Wynbish! We all know Murphy is going to be fantastic, but I really want to hear about Adams!!

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Phyllis Rogers Stone 2012-07-24 23:10:23

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And she's right. She doesn't have to like everything. And she had ever right to post her tweet. But it was a little tacky. There were rumors of trouble and clearly some people are out hoping for blood, so there you go.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Wynbish 2012-07-24 23:10:34

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I feel like with Donna, her reception mostly comes down to the audience's personal tastes.

It's like Michael Jordan playing baseball. Amy is great on screen, but this is a different game.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by ljay889 2012-07-24 23:14:45

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New tweet


?@SaraEileen
Incredibly clever ideas & Amy Adams is stellar. But poor chemistry b/n leads, awkward staging, and dozens of flubbed lines. I'm amazed

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Phyllis Rogers Stone 2012-07-24 23:15:00

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The only thing I've seen Donna live in was Follies and I thought she was fantastic. And I do love Amy and Denis, so I want this to be a success.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Play Esq. 2012-07-24 23:16:26

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Well, considering that she SHOULD know that her colleagues may read her tweets, the woman strikes me as rather dumb. I don't like to use that term, but when the shoe fits...


Added to that her subsequent tweet (god I hate that word)...come on! This is your profession, lady! Do you really want to piss so many people off so early into your career?

Yes...they say all "press" is good press if it gets your name out there, but I personally never want to see this actress because of her lack of professionalism and..well...class.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by jv92 2012-07-24 23:16:46

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What IS this? Do they feel they can Tweet because it was Shakespeare in the Park and it's free?

How WAS Amy Adams, though? I've always thought she was great in movies, and here's hoping she's great in this part!

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by beltingbaritone 2012-07-24 23:19:16

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Scott Alan had this to say after replying to Matt Doyle's response.

@ScottAlanNet
We should support one another in this industry. If you don't want to be kind, get the **** out ! And, yes, that even goes for friends.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by BwayBaby18 2012-07-24 23:21:20

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Seriously, how was "Moments in the Woods"? Sarcastically, Was Donna in the green dyed wedding dress?

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by perfectlymarvelous 2012-07-24 23:21:48

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Scott Alan just tweeted: Scott Alan ?@ScottAlanNet

@morganajames but you shouldn't tweet about it either. We should support one another in this industry & that tweet was disgusting. sorry.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Wynbish 2012-07-24 23:23:25

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I'm curious about "No More" as well. It must be thrilling to watch Chip singing the other half.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by qolbinau 2012-07-24 23:24:03

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RE: Scott...AWKWARDDDDD..wonder if they'll work together again.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Wynbish 2012-07-24 23:25:24

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Somewhere, Hunter Foster feels left out.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by E.Davis 2012-07-24 23:27:41

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Meredith Patterson also.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by musicaltheatreman2 2012-07-24 23:27:45

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can someone please post a review!

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by jv92 2012-07-24 23:27:56

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Well, Hunter Foster had a point. I mean, it was a little too "Hollywood" that year at the Tony Awards. He shouldn't have started a Facebook petition, but he wasn't wrong. What Ms. James Tweeted about was wrong. It's a first preview of a big musical in an outdoor theater. Did things get any better after the first preview of WONDERLAND?

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by WhizzerMarvin TrinaJasonMendel 2012-07-24 23:29:05

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This feels ripped from the story boards of Gossip Girl. She made a stupid mistake and instead of arguing about her right to tweet whatever she wants she should apologize and stop tweeting for a few weeks.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by budfrump 2012-07-24 23:32:40

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I cannot wait for a review. Super intrigued to hear about Amy Adams, and also the chemistry between Adams and O' Hare. I'm sure they're both fab though. The set looks GORGEOUS.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by WhizzerMarvin TrinaJasonMendel 2012-07-24 23:34:39

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jv92- I don't think it makes a difference if it's the first preview or the final performance. It doesn't matter if it's a musical or a play, on Broadway or Off, or even if the show was brilliant or a steaming pile of sh!t.

She works in the industry (or would like to continue doing so), and she needs to be aware that the cast and crew could be former or future colleagues. Publicly she should have nothing but praise for any production. She doesn't like something she should publicly keep her mouth shut. Behind closed doors she can trash actors, authors and creative teams all she wants, but not when making statements for public consumption.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by keb2 2012-07-24 23:35:46

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Morgan James also brought us this tweet on the day Tony nominations were announced:
https://twitter.com/morganajames/status/197334842160058368
@morganajames

wow. 3rd year in a row
7:41 AM - 1 May 12 via web · Embed this Tweet

I guess she felt that Addams Family, Wonderland, and Godspell were all snubbed of Best (Revival of a) Musical nominations?

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by FANtomFollies 2012-07-24 23:38:50

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ok i'm sick of hearing about this morgan girl. where are the reviews?

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by budfrump 2012-07-24 23:39:52

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Huge diva. Like everyone is saying, she is probably just bitter about not getting to be a part of the production. Did anyone in the Broadway community bitch tweet about Wonderland or Addams Family or Godspell? Not that I remember hearing about.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by jv92 2012-07-24 23:40:35

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Whizzer, I agree. I was trying to make reference to the fact that at a first preview it is in EXTREMELY bad taste.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by IdinaBellFoster 2012-07-24 23:41:50

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Unless they've drastically change their concept...there is no way this production is offensive sexually. I'm sorry that SPOILER..the wolf eats Grandmother.

morgan james
?@morganajames
@ScottAlanNet I'm sorry to offend. It's not about 'not supporting'. The prod/dir was offensive (sexually) and it just wasn't for me.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by E.Davis 2012-07-24 23:43:07

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Could she mean either the Wolf/Little Red or The Prince/The Baker's Wife?

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by ShbrtAlley44 2012-07-24 23:44:05

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That was really rough. I felt for the cast. They clearly have not had enough time in the space. I hated the staging; everyone is constantly out of breath from running up and down the stairs. It's aimless and messy and people are pulling focus from the action. It's never clear where to look. The Witch isn't able to pop "magically" into scenes because she has to go slowly limping offstage, which takes awhile. But there were many flubbed lines, huge issues with the orchestra, etc, most of which I can chalk up to not enough time in the space. Everyone really needs to go over their lyrics. With Sondheim in the house, I was getting super secondhand-embarrassed.

Donna Murphy flubbed several lines and apparently got something stuck in her throat during Last Midnight - she started coughing and clearing her throat in between phrases. She seemed totally lost to me. Denis O'Hare just isn't likeable. He's sort of a quirky mishmash right now - not a clear character at all, and certainy difficult to connect to. Amy Adams is fine, but Jessie Mueller is the clear standout. Her acting was excellent and she sounded lovely when not out of breath from running up and down the stairs.

What really bothered me was the backphrasing and tempo issues, but a lot of that is probably due to the lack of tech runs. I would be interested to go back when they have firmed it up, but I still think I'll hate the staging.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by jv92 2012-07-24 23:45:09

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The producer and director were offensive sexually? 'Cuz that's kind of what that tweet says. In any event, maybe it's good she missed the original production with the giant wolf penis.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by jacobsnchz14 2012-07-24 23:46:01

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Thanks for the review ShbrtAlley44!

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by aasjb4ever 2012-07-24 23:46:53

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James’ retort to Scott Allen. WHAT WHAT WHAT?!

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by ljay889 2012-07-24 23:47:40

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Maybe it's good she missed the original production with the giant wolf penis.

Amen.

Questions for those who have seen it: Are they using the full Lament and extended Children Will Listen like they did in London? Also, is Last Midnight sung to the baby, with some back and forth lyrics of both versions at the end?

Our Little World is not being used, right?

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by jv92 2012-07-24 23:47:50

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What did Oskar Eustis ever do to you Morgan?

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by IdinaBellFoster 2012-07-24 23:48:12

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I imagine the set is something the actors will grow more comfortable with. If you watch the Regents Park recording, the staging doesn't seem awkward at all, and the actors all seem perfectly fine, granted they may have built up their stamina.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Sinfonian4life 2012-07-24 23:49:08

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I missed what Hunter did!

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by ShbrtAlley44 2012-07-24 23:50:03

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Yes, they used the extended song."Our Little World" was in the playbill but was not performed. And they used the baby lyrics from the revival and she ended it with "Mother, here I come," but used the "Give me claws and a hunch" section.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by adamgreer 2012-07-24 23:51:01

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How's Chip Zien?

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by jv92 2012-07-24 23:51:05

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NOOOOO! Not the "revised" "Last Midnight!"

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by lida rose 2012-07-24 23:51:22

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it still needs work. the staging is very busy and a lot of things need to be tightened up but i still enjoyed it despite that. i know they were having a lot of technical problems last week with the weather, and honestly i was expecting a lot worse. the design elements were of course extraordinary, once it started getting dark that set was downright magical.

just a few thoughts on the performances: sarah stiles was the unexpected standout, little red has never been a favorite of mine but her interpretation was very funny and very different from danielle ferland's. jessie mueller was also wonderful. denis o'hare was the biggest disappointment for me, he flubbed some lyrics and while he had some good moments i wasn't really feeling his characterization overall. donna seemed to be having some vocal problems, she was coughing during "last midnight" and was holding back on a lot of the big belting moments. amy adams was good but not a revelation, her take on the role is very gleason-lite at the moment.

that said, i was sobbing like a baby at the end and i'm dying to see it again later in the run.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by ljay889 2012-07-24 23:51:38

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Thanks! That's what they did in London. But such a shame that "Our Little World" is not being performed.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by SondheimFan5 2012-07-24 23:53:04

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Orchestra's live, right? And how does it sound? It's not Gemignani conducting, right?

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by bwayphreak234 2012-07-24 23:53:43

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What were the costumes like?! Dying to know about them.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by ljay889 2012-07-24 23:54:14

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Gemignani is listed as the Musical Director.

Also, does it sound like Donna Murphy is using the original keys? I wonder if she'd benefit from the lower Vanessa Williams keys.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by ljay889 2012-07-24 23:57:18

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Bwayphreak, someone said this on ATC.

" The funky/punk costuming is a mixed bag"

http://www.talkinbroadway.com/allthatchat/d.php?id=2086712

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by HeyMrMusic 2012-07-24 23:58:36

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There were many misses and bumps along the way. I'm sure those will get worked out as this is the first preview. But I don't truly understand the concept, the staging and storytelling is confusing, and I think it's near impossible to do the show without a conductor bringing in the actors.

For those keeping score, the revival lyrics of Last Midnight are used, they added the lost verse of Children Will Listen after the first verse, and Our Little World was listed in the Playbill but not sung.

Amy Adams and Denis O'Hare are fine on their own, but their relationship needs tweaking (in the theatrical sense). Their argument in the second act was somewhat rewritten. I don't think it had the same impact as the original lines.

Donna had a bit of a rough act 2. She was not with the orchestra at all at points in Lament. She had a pretty bad coughing fit when she was singing to the baby in Last Midnight. She also forgot a line in Children Will Listen.

There were numerous times when the actors were not with the orchestra. Now I know this is a notorious score and it's near impossible to hear what's right or wrong, but as someone who knows this score inside out, it was very obvious that the actors were struggling to hear their entrances or beat without a conductor physically in front of them.

The direction is just confusing. Yes, transitions were rough and awkward and that stuff will get worked out, but it's not really clear what is going on in the first act. And the craziness in the second act seemed tame. The approaches to each act should have been reversed. And the boy narrator...I just don't get it. It's not really clear why he's the narrator or why the characters depend on him and in this concept, it doesn't make sense why the story even continues after they feed him to the giant, which just felt wrong.

Also, No One Is Alone was probably the biggest mess of the show. Lighting cues were off and Jessie and Denis were not together at all. Jessie kept missing her cues it seems. Could she not hear? It made Denis seem wrong whenever he sang even though he was on top of it. In fact, Denis O'Hare sang every correct note and rhythm as Sondheim wrote it, something I haven't heard from other Bakers. It made his parts in You Fault and No More illuminated. He sang every one of Sondheim's strange intervals and sang them correctly. You have to commend him for that.

Chip Zien in No More. Everything was right in the world when that happened. Just all and every emotion.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by E.Davis 2012-07-24 23:59:37

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I love the dynamic of "Our Little World", and give Rapunzel more to do in the show.
Hopefully it just was not ready for the stage, and will be put in later in the run.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Wynbish 2012-07-25 00:01:21

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Chip Zien in No More. Everything was right in the world when that happened.

Yes! Good on ya, Chip!

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by ljay889 2012-07-25 00:02:52

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Just for extra clarity - they are using the extended LAMENT with the "Now you know what's out there in the world" section?

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by iluvtheatertrash 2012-07-25 00:03:43

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Morgan James has some voice.... But she has a foul reputation to being a regular you-know-what. I don't know personally, but I've heard...

I'm sure nerves played a lot into this tonight. I think they were just under-prepared. I have a feeling they'll be moving along much more smoothly by week's end. Can't wait to see this Friday night. Dear God, keep the rain away.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by iluvtheatertrash 2012-07-25 00:03:43

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Did I read somewhere that Chip Zien says the stairs are up to 50 ft. high? Of course they're winded!

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by HeyMrMusic 2012-07-25 00:03:49

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Donna sang Vanessa's key for Children Will Listen. I think Lament was lowered, but I can't recall if it was Vanessa'a key as well.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by ljay889 2012-07-25 00:06:35

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Could you tell if LAST MIDNIGHT sounded like the original key or lower?

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by followspot 2012-07-25 00:08:02

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For those keeping score, Morgan James continues to frantically backpedal:

morganajames @ScottAlanNet — my not liking the concept of *one* show does not make me unsupportive of my community. No way. You know that.

Reminder of how she didn't like the "concept":

"Question: HOW can you f-ck up "into the woods"?? I fear musicianship is dead in musical theatre. And acting, for that matter. #horrified"

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by ShbrtAlley44 2012-07-25 00:08:03

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Last Midnight sounded like the original key to me. I could be misremembering. Lament was in a weird lower key. I'm not good with music theory but it sounded minor to me. Chip Zien was good, but his backphrasing was killing me. And then the poor guy got his homeless man backpack stuck on the stairs as he was going down.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by HeyMrMusic 2012-07-25 00:10:52

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Hello Little Girl was pretty sexual. I can see how some can be offended.

Yeah, a lot of running up and down spiral stairs en masse. It's very difficult to know what to look at in points. In my opinion, the costume design was not cohesive and does little to help tell the characters apart from one another. Characters that are well defined got lost all over the first act. And the first act was overly choreographed. I don't think it did anything to aid the storytelling. In Agony, there was literally a gesture for every other word of the song. That song is funny because it's a funny song. You couldn't hear the cleverness in the lyric when they're miming everything they're saying.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by HBP 2012-07-25 00:12:14

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Just got onto the train after the first preview! I'm sorry to say that I was underwhelmed by this production of one of my favorite shows. It was poorly cast and the staging was not fitting for the Delacorte. The actors spent way too much time on the staircases and raised platforms, where they would always be obstructed by the set to some portion of the audience. I hope they fix this before previews are finished - they really need to bring the actors and the action forward and closer to the audience. When they're up on the set, which is the case for much of the show, they feel very far away.

There were a few pacing and tempo issues that I had, but I won't get into specifics as those are easily remedied. The casting, though, is not. The saving grace is, surprisingly, Sarah Stiles. She got the biggest laughs from the audience. Chip Zien and Amy Adams were okay. Amy has a great voice and did well with the comedy.. I'm sure she'll be great by opening night. 

Donna Murphy was good.. not as wonderful as I hoped, but I think she may also be a little sick, so I'll reserve judgement. The COOLEST part of the show was one of her exits. I won't ruin the surprise, but it was awesome.

Dennis O'Hare is terribly miscast. I can't imagine he will get much better. He cannot sing and he didn't land a single one of his jokes. His serious moments were ruined by his slurred speech and poor diction. It really took the entire show down a whole notch for me. 

Everyone else was pretty mediocre. The princes seemed to be copying the original cast's performances as seen on the DVD. Jack was actually pretty good, but his mother was trying way too hard and falling flat most of the time.

Overall, I thought the show was pretty mediocre. Maybe if they rework the staging and replace O'Hare with someone who can do the part justice, I'd go see it again.

ETA: Donna's keys did seem to be lowered, but as I said, she may have been under the weather. I wouldn't assume they'll be lowered for the whole run.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by michellek45 2012-07-25 00:12:58

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There were huge sound issues tonight. Lots of muffled mics and static coming from them moving around. In act 2 the mics even went out for a few seconds. There were a couple of balancing issues between the orchestra and the singers. Tempos were all over the place, especially in "No One Is Alone." It was taken really fast and left Cinderella and the Baker out of breath. The princes were out of sync in "Agony," and there were a few instances of people going out of tune. The set was gorgeous but left the actors scattered all over the place. The lighting did its job lighting the stage, but it didn't add an extra dimension.

As to the cast, they were alright. Pretty much everyone flubbed a line here or there. The two stand-outs in my opinion were Cinderella and Little Red. I also loved Jack's Mom. Amy Adams, Donna Murphy, and Gideon Glick were all good, but didn't bring anything new to the roles. This seems to be an unpopular opinion, but Dennis O'Hare was a wonderfully awkward Baker. I loved that he made the character seem as though he was lost, but that he also thought he was in charge. His singing needs a bunch of work, though. Chip Zien was great. I did love the change they made with the kid being the narrator and the ending.

Overall, everything is there and it's good, but it's lacking in the magic.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by HeyMrMusic 2012-07-25 00:13:13

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Last Midnight was in the original key. It was weird to hear, "And the boom and the doom...mother, here I come!"

I didn't mind Chip's backphrasing.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by ShbrtAlley44 2012-07-25 00:14:32

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Agreed on the slurred words from O'Hare. I was actually wondering if he was drunk a couple times.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by The Josh 2012-07-25 00:15:50

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I love the concept for this show, but it was pretty clear that they hadn't had enough rehearsal. Give it a week or two and I'm sure it'll be great. The cast, overall, was great. Jessie Mueller was the clear standout, her voice is beautiful and her acting top-notch. Made me even more excited about the Drood revival! Amy Adams was just as great as I expected, and I loved her "Moments in the Woods." Chip Zein is just as wonderful now as he was in the original production. I definitely think Denis O'Hare needs more work, but I think he's on the right track. I'm interested to see how he settles into the role. Overall, definitely worth seeing.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by perfectlymarvelous 2012-07-25 00:16:14

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HeyMrMusic (or anyone else that was there tonight), can you elaborate on what exactly was happening in "Hello Little Girl" that made it so sexual? I mean, in the original the Wolf has a giant penis on the front of the costume so it's never been...not sexual. And I'd expect since they deliberately cast an adult actress they'd be playing it up a bit.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Wynbish 2012-07-25 00:17:05

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Well, Denis did parade around New Orleans Sunday night.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by ShbrtAlley44 2012-07-25 00:18:11

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There's a lot of humping, groping, and suggestive lilts of the voice. "Goodbyyye, MISTER..... WOLFFF."

Also it's made to look like they're having sex when he's eating her.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by ljay889 2012-07-25 00:19:12

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It almost sounds like O'Hare is repeating his performance from SWEET CHARITY.

If I'm not mistaken, this was their first full run through with tech. I'm sure many of these issues will be ironed out.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Kad 2012-07-25 00:21:32

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Note that this was, I believe, the second time they have done the second act with full technical elements. Their rehearsal last night was washed out, leaving only their run earlier today. That means this was only the second time they've run the show in its entirety with all elements.

Considering that, I thought it went off very, very well. Undoubtedly, by next week, it will be in very good shape.

Still don't understand this hoopla about Murphy's dress. I honestly believe that rumor was fabricated- because, of all the things I have heard, I have not heard that little story.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by ShbrtAlley44 2012-07-25 00:22:23

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Also, as much as Jessie Mueller did well, I think she's a better Baker's Wife. She just isn't innately Cinderella to me. But she did a fantastic job.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by E.Davis 2012-07-25 00:23:19

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I was just going to mention SWEET CHARITY.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by RockStarNYC 2012-07-25 00:25:07

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Make no mistake about it. This show is TOUGH! Took my community theater group the 1st weekend to get everything right. Yes, these are professional actors, but this is a habitually difficult show. I entered the virtual lotto for tomorrow. Am I expecting a thrilling show? Yes. Am I expecting a flawless show? No, and that is the wonder that is live theater.

In regards to Ms James' tweets, it is downright disrespectful. It is a preview. It is a first preview. And her contradictions of what she disliked about show certainly has me raising an eyebrow. Apparently, her tweets caught the attention of one cast member.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by ljay889 2012-07-25 00:26:02

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Could someone tell us how many players are in the orchestra?

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by bwayphreak234 2012-07-25 00:29:17

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Not getting through the entire show more than once is very rough... This reminds me of Women on the Verge where the first run through was the first preview.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Kad 2012-07-25 00:29:48

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There are 11 players, ljay. It sounds great.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by HeyMrMusic 2012-07-25 00:43:52

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I think they will eventually sound great. They were not together at points (what people are referring to as tempo issues).

I think Denis O'Hare will definitely grow into the role. I didn't mind his singing. As I said earlier, he is actually a very careful musician and has learned every bit of Sondheim's intricate intervals and rhythms. It shows. Is he the best technician? No. But was Elaine Stritch? No, and it didn't matter. I think the same can be said about Denis. And no, he is not doing the same performance he did in Sweet Charity. He didn't rely on his manic gestures or pacing or anything of the sort. He plays a very grounded Baker who finally lets lose when his wife dies. It's not perfect yet, but he's on the right track I think.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by VampyreCamp 2012-07-25 00:46:40

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I'm sure many of you who were in the audience with me tonight agree that the pacing was a little slow but I didn't mind it so much because I get it... its a first preview/the weather has been sucky so teching must have been hard/the show is a mammoth... etc. etc. etc.

I truly believe in this production and I cannot wait to see it again in a couple weeks as the performances settle in and the entire company has time to rest. They got through it fully and I'm thankful for that. Listen, it didn't cost me a dime to see this production so I'm going to be forgiving of a few flaws here and there. Its live theatre. $#!T Happens.

But here were my likes in no particular order:

"It Takes Two"... singing wasn't great... ok... but I was smiling the whole time. This was the first time that Dennis O'Hare and Amy Adams found great chemistry.

"Last Midnight"... I wasn't sure if Donna Murphy's hacking was a character choice but by the umpteenth time I was confident she either got a bug in her throat or swallowed fog or her voice was just getting tired. Despite that... when she went THERE it was GREAT! Especially at the end. A couple of nice surprises there. I won't ruin it for you and I hope no one else on the board does.

Glen Close and the Giant... the puppetry was cool and very well done. Miss Close is the first Giant's voice I was frightened of. Sorry Miss Dench and Miss Lansbury and of course Miss Louise (the original) but Glenn Close has the trump card here.

Sarah Stiles as Little Red Riding Hood... she's just fantastic!

Gideon Glick... he's funny... anyone else hear a twinge of John Cameron Mitchell in his singing?

Chip Zien is a great Mysterious Man and totally makes it his own!

And Ellen Harvey as Cinderella's Stepmother is a great stand out in my eyes. Some may disagree but I just thought she was great.

That's all for now. I think is a great production with wonderful potential and I cannot wait to see it again after its worked out its troubles a bit... which hopefully won't take long.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by April Saul 2012-07-25 00:48:47

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Okay, in reading this thread, I am starting to feel sorry for this Morgan James person! It sounds like the consensus is that the show is kind of an under-rehearsed mess at this point--although I can't wait to see it and it could eventually be terrific!--and that her big mistake was that she said as much, but unlike most posters here, signed her real name to her comments?

Enlighten me, guys...why was she so reviled for that tweet? Not trying to stir the pot, just not sure I understand...

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by CurtainPullDowner 2012-07-25 00:53:03

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I think the band sounds great, lots of cello, very full for that size. I will say I remember when you knew where the music was coming from, (and the actors were wishing they knew also).

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by uncageg 2012-07-25 00:54:50

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I think the show is almost ready. Unless it was just because this was a first preview, they don't seem to be going for the same "feel" as the original. This version is a bit more serious. I can feel it being stronger in about a week and of course the cast probably wasn't in full voice. I think O'Hare has been miscast. His acting was fine but vocally he just didn't work for me or my guest. Amy Adams was quite good and hope she gets better. Her "Moments in the Woods" was delivered almost flawlessly and I bet by next week it could be flawless. Standouts, so far are Stiles, Glick, Broderick and Zbornick in my opinion. I am sure others will be added to the list in the coming days.

We wondered if a bug found its way down Murphy's throat during "Last Midnight". She coughed a few times to clear her throat and finished the song with no problem. But as mentioned elsewhere, seeing her on that platform in the green dress when the wind kicked up was a moment.

The set is pretty cool but kind of gets in the way. Very inventive things happen on it though. I think you have to go in not thinking you will see the original or the revival. The costumes are not what you would expect and there have been a lot of little additions to the characters' behavior. Having the kid be the narrator was genius. (Did they do this in the B'way revival?) The ending was very nice. There was also an extra verse in "Children Will Listen" at the end that was wonderful.

It clocked in at about 3 hours with the intermission. It was interesting that mostly all of the comedic moments that we know got polite laughter but there were other monments that got a bit more. I would love to see this again after opening night. For not having a dress rehearsal I think they did a fine job. I bet they are still getting used to the set. It didn't blow me away but it wasn't the worst I have seen. And I am betting that Murphy will get better. She just seemed to be holding back a bit, which I expected. I also hope O'Hare gets better, I like him but he didn't really impress me this evening and it was kind of frustrating listening to him not do justice to "No More" with Mr. Zien right there onstage with him. I just wanted them to switch. Just my random thoughts.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by HeyMrMusic 2012-07-25 00:55:19

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I will go and say that I just did not like the way they handled the harp. And when they were going to sell the harp?! Just all sorts of rudeness. I don't want to ruin it if people don't now how it's handled.

I think they need to find where the jokes are. Very little landed, but it just sounded like they didn't trust in Lapine's humor. Maybe it's the direction too.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by theaterkid1015 2012-07-25 00:59:39

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April, I think a lot of people are upset because it's just bad form to criticize a first preview so harshly and so publicly. Should Morgan James have just lied through her teeth and said it was brilliant? No, I don't think anyone thinks that. She could have stated her opinion a bit more diplomatically though.

Sondheim is a bear, the tech period (like any tech period) was less than ideal. By all accounts, the show needs work and I'll bet money everyone involved in the production knows it. It's not Morgan James place to come in and lob such a vicious criticism at people who are already exhausted, most likely sick, and riding some of the highest expectations of a show this season. I think that's why people are upset: just gives these folks some time before we decide they've killed "musicality and acting."

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by uncageg 2012-07-25 01:01:42

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I think it is the direction and just the fact that it is a first preview. And yes, the harp thing was not something I expected. I also found this producton to be a bit more sexually blatant.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by HeyMrMusic 2012-07-25 01:05:40

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This production needs to rely on the material a little more. Seems to want to make it something that it's not.

One of Donna's special effects, shall we say, was pretty great though. Better than any other time I've seen it in a production.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Sinfonian4life 2012-07-25 01:06:19

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Looking forward to seeing this show. I have no doubt that with the professionalism (not referring to incident just stating that they are professionals) of the cast, crew, and NY Public Theatre, that it will all come together. I am sure they have a very early call tomorrow.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by uncageg 2012-07-25 01:06:25

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Haven't read all of the post so it may have ben mentioned that Sondheim was there. He was sitting in the second section up kind of center/left.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by EricMontreal22 2012-07-25 01:08:45

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"Hello Little Girl was pretty sexual. I can see how some can be offended. "

Isn't it usually? I mean the original production had a wolf's penis on his costume.

Speaking of, I'd be curious to hear how the costumes differ from the UK one. The set looks virtually the same.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Leadingplayer 2012-07-25 01:12:40

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The whole post was just so haughty....to say acting is dead based on a first preview? And from somebody who has never done anything of value and she is saying it about among others a 3 time Oscar nominee (who by all accounts is doing fine...) Yikes! Career ending blunder for Ms. James.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by HBP 2012-07-25 01:12:58

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A few things I forgot to mention in the review:

Jessie Mueller was very good as Cinderella. Due to the poor staging choices, though, she was always very far away from me and I hardly saw anything but her back. That's not to say I had a bad seat, I was just blocked by the set/other actors, etc.

I am surprised to hear that the orchestra was only 11 players strong. They sounded great!

The puppetry for the giant was very cool. And the beanstalk. Really great use of the set.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by HeyMrMusic 2012-07-25 01:14:24

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There was actual gyration and simulated sex positions though. Those were not in the original staging. When he ate Little Red, they used one of the other definitions of "eating" in the staging.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by uncageg 2012-07-25 01:15:26

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Tey dropped the penis and went for more sexual advancement. They also did the same with Moments in the Woods. I gasped at the beginning of that song.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by EricMontreal22 2012-07-25 01:18:47

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Thanks for the clarification. More so than on the London filmed video?

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by Kad 2012-07-25 01:24:01

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Not really, no.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by broadwaydevil 2012-07-25 01:26:40

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My review:

From initial glance, the set is gorgeous. It's expansive and blends beautifully with the park. As I'm moving to my seat, I'm already getting excited. As the lights are starting to go down, I hear whispers Sondheim is there and I was able to get a glimpse - it's true people, God was there!

Then, the show starts and I started to realize the set that appears beautiful would actually be a bit of a hindrance. The prologue was actually one of the bigger messes of the evening. It's so over choreographed to the point where the actors are running up and down spiral staircases, shouting out lyrics, doing a few spins and then shouting their next line out of breath. I wonder if this an issue with the cast themselves. Perhaps they haven't built up the stamina the physically-demanding movement requires. However, when every single cast member seems to be having frequent issues with being out of breath, I'm inclined to blame what very well may be impossible direction.

There are a lot of other issues with the prologue. I know the score inside and out and knew all of the characters and the way it's directed, I frequently didn't know who was singing or speaking. Part of the issue I think is that there's constant movement. It almost felt like Into the Woods on speed. People who aren't singing are frequently running about and are so distracting that it almost became a game of "find the singer." Moreover, lighting could have been an effective means of highlighting who was singing but since the prologue takes place before sunset, if the lighting was there, it wasn't helping.

Some of the staging really works marvelously. The spiral staircases are used to great effect in the more intimate scenes as green umbrellas are spun around the staircase to illustrate a growing beanstalk and tree branches interwoven through the staircase can make Cinderella's mother's grave. Truly brilliant and one of the highlights. The giant was also staged very cleverly and effectively.

Amy Adams was decent. She certainly has the voice but surprisingly lacked charisma. For a three time Oscar nominee, her presence almost felt nonexistent. In past seasons, when a commanding star took the stage, I felt it. Amy Adams was kind of just there. This could be because ITW is really an ensemble piece and also because she was getting swallowed up by the expansive set and crazy choreography.

I actually really enjoyed Denis O'Hare's performance. He flubbed some lyrics but his voice sounded great and I thought he really had the characterization of the Baker down beautifully.

I am a huge Donna Murphy fan so I may be a bit biased but she is simply regal. She had some sort of weird coughing fit during "Last Midnight" which at first I thought was a character choice but it quickly became clear something went wrong. That notwithstanding, she delivered a tremendous performance in what is easily the most exciting role in the play. She had the comedic timing down quite well. She was beautiful in "Children Will Listen!" The dress is beautiful and so is she, so I have no idea what that supposed controversy is about, by the way.

I'll second a previous poster's complaints about "Agony." The number is funny. It doesn't rely on cheap gimmicks like insipid hand gestures. It's kind of offensive to assume the audience won't "get" the material and needs to somehow be prodded to laugh. Worse than that, their random hand gestures meant the audience was laughing in all the wrong places, often over some of the most clever lyrics. It really wasn't the fault of the audience, they laughed clearly when they were "supposed to." No idea what that was about.

Little Red's scene: Apparently this is getting discussed a lot as being sexually explicit. I actually thought the choreography here was one of the highlights. The wolf is supposed to be a pedophile, just look at his costume in the original Broadway production. Yes, it was a bit graphic, but despite the appearances, ITW genuinely isn't a show for all ages. It's a bit more mature and I thought the scene worked well.

Sarah Stiles, Jessie Mueller, and Chip Zien were surprising standouts.

Cues were missed, lyrics were flubbed, but it was the FIRST preview, with a shortened tech week. All of that can be forgiven. So, in the final assessment, we're left with a bit of a messily directed and choreographed production with a very good, but not quite excellent, cast. The show is still beautiful and a great night at the theatre.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by lida rose 2012-07-25 01:32:16

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for what it's worth, this morning the line monitors were going through and warning families that brought their children about the mature content. i guess they want to avoid disgruntled parents that were expecting a family-friendly fairy tale.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by HeyMrMusic 2012-07-25 01:35:35

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Very thoughtful, broadwaydevil. I pretty much agree about everything. The faults of this production lie in the direction. I have no trouble overcoming technical issues on a first preview. (Although I think a lot of the musical issues would be solved with the orchestra in a pit and the conductor conducting in front of the stage. This is not the easiest of scores to be performing with a conductor behind the set.)

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by CurtainPullDowner 2012-07-25 01:48:11

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Doesn't anyone else think Mueller's costumes were ugly and very unflattering to her?
And that harpy girl also.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by broadwaydevil 2012-07-25 01:49:34

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A few other random thoughts:

The child narrator works very effectively. I know some purists have been criticizing the idea but it really works. It makes the feeding of the narrator to the giant resonate even a bit deeper. It certainly helped that Jack Broderick did a very good job.

The witch's transformation is painful. It's supposed to be a mesmerizing visual effect but it looked like something a low budget high school production would have done. They blew leaves around and the lights dimmed a bit while she basically just changed in front of us, the whole thing took a painfully and uncomfortably long time.

And I know most people will gloss over it because the role is so tiny but Ellen Harvey was very good as the stepmother.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by HBP 2012-07-25 01:57:26

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I can't believe I didn't mention the narrator! I loved the child narrator concept and think it worked wonderfully. Jack Broderick was GREAT, and I'm usually very skeptical about child actors. He sang well and did surprisingly well for his age. He was right on cue and looked like he was having fun.

I do agree about the witch's transformation. But I think it took extra long because there seemed to be a problem with her wig, I think. Can't be sure. I'm sure it will be smoother once they work out the kinks. Side note: I still can't get over her one exit. It was the highlight of the show for me.

The Public Theatre's Shakespeare/Park presents INTO THE WOODS -- Discussion
Posted by HeyMrMusic 2012-07-25 02:08:59

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I thought the child actor did a fine job, but the concept just doesn't make sense to me. What is the whole second act then? Is it Inception? They don't really explain too much. The killing of the Narrator was also uncomfortable. And why would the show continue after that?