Director and seventh-grade math teacher at Trafford, Janice Ruoff said she chose this show specifically because “a larger group of eighth graders were ready to tackle bigger parts and handle the challenging music of Stephen Sondheim.”
Rehearsals have been transforming slowly as the sets and costumes fully come together for this unique show. “Into the Woods Jr.” is different from any other production Trafford Middle has done with its faster pace, which requires the audience to pay deeper attention for the context of the show.
Ruoff noted that early rehearsals were difficult for the ensemble members (who are playing trees) because there were no sets. Without the backdrop, the students were instructed to use their own minds to visualize where their spots should be.
However, once the set pieces began to come together, this production took on a new life. Ruoff explained how some major highlights of the show include the detailed costumes and set design, particularly the canopy placed above the trees and handmade tree structures that are made to be used throughout the performances.
Beyond the stage design, Ruoff said the experience has helped the students grow as performers and as teammates. Through rehearsals, students have learned how to develop their characters while also building stronger relationships with their fellow cast members.
Ruoff hopes audiences will walk away from the show feeling the same excitement and energy the students have brought to the production.
“They can expect fun, joy, happiness and a pretty good story,” she said.
Performances of “Into the Woods Jr.” will take place at Trafford Middle School on March 20 and 21 at 7 p.m. and March 22 at 2 p.m. Community members, families and friends are encouraged to attend and support the students who have spent months preparing for the production.
