By Kim Kalunian, WPRO News
Ocean State Theatre Company’s production of “Into the Woods” boasts a stellar cast of singer-actors, but unfortunately suffers from an amateurish set, sloppy costumes and unfocused direction.
Paired with the baseline difficulty of Stephen Sondheim’s deliciously complicated score, most of the show feels a little bit clunky.
Still, what makes this production worth seeing is the terrific ensemble of performers.
Rhode Island favorite Sarah Pothier’s soprano sparkles in the role of Cinderella, and she looks as beautiful as she sounds. Nicole Calkins is absolutely perfect as Little Red Ridinghood, and she’s one of the few performers who clearly articulates each and every line and lyric. It’s a pleasure to hear Tommy Labanaris sing the role of the Baker, and at his side is Amanda Ryan Paige as the Baker’s Wife. The pair make a fine onstage couple.
One of my favorite voices in the show belongs to Wayne Hu, who plays the Wolf and Cinderella’s Prince. It’s a shame that his wolf mask muffles his stellar rendition of “Hello, Little Girl” and that he suffered with microphone problems the night I saw the performance.
Jonathan Olivera’s choice to play Rapunzel’s Prince a la Antonio Banderas was amusing but a bit odd.
Brian Mulvey’s lines as the Mysteries Man often when by in too much of a hurry and his costume – a hooded, painted sack of sorts – did nothing to add to his character.
Erika Amato commands as the Witch, showing off her strong vocals in “Last Midnight.” She also has tender moments in “Stay With Me,” but the song lacks any true display of mother-daughter bond between her and Rapunzel (the beautiful Caroline Bateson).
Stacey Geer was made to play the role of Jack’s Mother, and Joseph DePietro hits all the right notes as Jack.
Despite the cast’s powerhouse collection of talent, the direction of Kathryn Markey falls flat. There’s pacing problem, lots of indicating, clunky blocking and too many missed comedic opportunities.
The set, comprised entirely of two dimensional trees and cutouts, doesn’t add anything to the magic of the show, and due to the overuse of spotlights, many actors are often half in shadow.
There were a few line and music flubs the night I saw the show, which never derailed any of the songs, but did make some of the songs (particularly the opening prologue, “Into the Woods”) feel a bit stilted.
Still, I commend the cast for delivering an entertaining production of “Into The Woods,” onstage now at Ocean State Theatre Company through May 17. Click here for show times, tickets and information.
