Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods, with its blend of familiar fairy tales and real-world complexities, goes beyond the stage. It serves as a reflection on the strength of storytelling and how the tales we grew up with continue to resonate through characters and scenarios in our adult lives.

The Bangalow Theatre Company (BTC) production premiering at Byron Theatre in November 2024, is not just about the timeless wisdom of fairy tales, but also about the powerful role women play in community theatre.

The all-female production team at BTC, led by first-time BTC director Amy Skene, demonstrates the strength and creativity that local women bring to the stage. Amy, with over two decades of experience in drama and performing arts education, sees Into the Woods as a reflection of the complexities of human desires and choices. “Sondheim’s work is layered and rich, and we’re embracing that to create a production that feels both familiar and surprising,” she says.

Supporting Skene is Assistant Director Tia Nelson, a seasoned performer and director who brings her extensive experience to the role. Having starred in several BTC productions and earned a nomination for a Gold Palm Theatre Award for her role in RENT, Tia’s creative vision helps shape the direction of the production, both behind the scenes and through her understanding of the actors’ process. “With Into The Woods, you get to see a bit of a darker side to the fairy tales we were told growing up. Sondheim is the Einstein of the Musical Theatre world, so strap in!” she says.

Musical Director Margaret Curtis, a long-time collaborator with BTC, tackles Sondheim’s famously challenging score with precision. As a pianist and harpist, Curtis is no stranger to complex music, having performed with the Lismore Symphony Orchestra. Her leadership in the music department ensures that the live band—an essential element of BTC’s productions—enhances every emotional beat of the show. Producer Bobbie Field, another driving force behind BTC’s success, has been working in theatre for over a decade, and her passion for creating standout productions shines through. Alongside co-producer Hollie Azzopardi, a local bestselling author and mother, the production team brings together a blend of seasoned professionalism and local heart. Azzopardi, who recently performed on stage in The Beast and served as lead understudy in Speaking in Tongues, continues to expand her involvement in theatre, noting, “It’s an honour to help bring this beautiful story to life, especially with such a talented group of women leading the way.”

Choreographer Sher Manu, with over 30 years of experience in danceand theatre, rounds out the powerhouse female team. Having worked on major TV shows like So You Think You Can Dance and Dancing with the Stars, Sher’s award-winning choreography will add vibrancy and movement to this already dynamic production.

Sondheim’s take on fairy tale classics like Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, and Jack and the Beanstalk might recall the charming characters of our childhood, but they also remind us that “happily ever after” is rarely the end of the story. Wishes are granted but there is always a price to pay.

Actor Finja Mierauis is thrilled to be playing the part of The Witch in Into the Woods. “As a mother of five, the themes of transformation and motherhood really resonate, since raising children means constantly making choices in the moment—choices that have very real consequences,” she says. “The Witch reminds us that morality and magic are part of the human experience, reflecting our struggles, the choices we make, and the impact they have on our lives. I see going ‘into the woods’ as a metaphor for life; a journey into the unknown, where we confront our fears and discover our true selves.”

Fellow performer, Lulu Miskin has enjoyed the process of exploring themes of longing and self-worth in her role as Cinderella. “As a young woman I have found a connection with Cinderella’s journey of self-discovery and resilience. The show invites us to consider the challenges of leaning into new possibilities. It’s a reminder that we hold the power of self-determination and that there’s always hope and a chance for new beginnings,” she says.

“For this production we’ve put our own unique twist on the classic tale, infusing it with an eclectic flair,” says Amy. “Our vision is a fusion of bohemian, modern, and sometimes urban elements, creating a setting that feels timeless yet grounded in the present. This mix of styles reflects the patchwork of emotions and experiences within the characters’ journeys; chaotic, vibrant, and unpredictable… just like life,” she says.

Founded by Artistic Director Anouska Gammon in 2015, the Bangalow Theatre Company has consistently celebrated the contributions and creativity of local female artists. Every BTC production to date has had female Directors, Musical Directors, Producers, and Choreographers at the helm, highlighting the strength, commitment, and leadership of women in community theatre. For the cast and crew of this BTC production, these themes are not just part of the script— they reflect the dedication and creativity that women – as partners, parents, carers, in paid work, and unpaid work – bring to community theatre.

In a world where storytelling remains one of the most potent tools we have, Into the Woods promises to engage and inspire audiences of all ages, reminding us that the stories we tell, and re-tell, shape not only the world we live in but us as humans.

Sally Schofield

BTC presents Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods
November 22–30 at the Byron Theatre
bangalowtheatre.com.au