The Penn State Thespians Present: Into the Woods

Starting today, you can head to Schwab Auditorium to see the Penn State Thespians in their spring semester show, “Into the Woods.” Directed by Lauren Spinabelli, “Into the Woods” tells the story of a baker and his wife looking to end the curse placed on them by an evil witch that hinders them from having a baby. On their journey they meet a colorful cast of fairytale characters including Cinderella, little red riding hood, Jack the giant slayer and many more.

Becca Magner, who plays little red riding hood’s grandmother, describes “Into the Woods” as being “different from any other show [the thespians] produced. This show is a lot darker and thought-provoking.”

This version of the famous musical takes a slight twist by adding a few scenes as an homage to the famous Grimms’ Fairy Tales. Despite the gruesome scenes, the team of actors find ways to add humor to the story and make it a compelling, fun story for all ages.

Spinabelli tells Valley she is thankful for her amazing team of actors and staff that made directing easy and amazing. “The cast and production team were able to take something I had envisioned and turn it into something great. It was better than I could have ever hoped for,” Spinabelli says. 

Along with the cast, the set design and costumes are gorgeous and bring life to the fairy tale characters many read about as children. In addition, the cast seem to really connect on stage and bring their characters to life through their diverse personalities.

“I’m still really new to the Thespians, but loved having the opportunity to have a part and act with more experienced people,” freshman Jerrod Unowitz, who plays Rapunzel’s prince, says. 

The elaborate and gorgeous set, combined with the dedication from the actors and crew are among the many things that make “Into the Woods” a very special play.

“Into the Woods takes things like fairy tales and twists them and makes them intriguing for adults. The underlying themes explore stories we’ve been telling for so long,” Spinabelli says.

“Into the Woods” will be playing March 24 through the 26 at Schwab Auditorium. Come support the Thespians in another great show — it’ll be magical!