The Stephen Sondheim-James Lapine musical will play the Houston, TX, venue December 6-18 at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts. Tony nominee Emily Skinner, who created the role of Daisy in Side Show, will star as The Witch.
This production is being led by a team of Broadway designers: Ann Hould-Ward will revisit her original 1987 costume designs, Kevin Depinet will create the scenic design, and Ken Billington will design the lighting.
Using a large collection of the actual costumes from the 1987 Broadway run, Hould-Ward and team will undertake an extensive refurbishment process to restore the garments to their original conditions, while adding a large amount of new costuming to this production.
A Never-Before-Seen Glimpse of Into The Woods’ Original Costume Designs
In a statement, Hould-Ward said, “I have had a wonderful time working with Bobby Longbottom and Emily Skinner on the story and character of the Witch. I think you will notice the frustration the Witch has with her world and her situation. At every turn she wants to control—like how she tries to control Rapunzel in the tower. The witch will go from ugly to the beautiful version of what she once was in the blink of an eye—she has a magical quality that is a bit of old Hollywood meets fairytale.”
TUTS artistic advisor Sheldon Epps added, “I am thrilled that we have been able to bring together such a tremendous creative team for our production of this Sondheim classic. I know that Bobby and his collaborators will bring a fresh and exciting vision to the show that will thrill both those who have seen it before, and those who are going Into The Woods for the first time. I have no doubt that they will deliver a great theatrical treat for the holidays and another momentous addition to a TUTS season that is inspiring a new admiration and respect for the company.”
The creative team also includes musical director Charlie Alterman.
Longbottom was nominated for a Tony Award for his work on the 2002 Broadway revival of Flower Drum Song.
Skinner, who was Tony-nominated with Alice Ripley for their performances in Side Show, has also been seen on Broadway in James Joyce's The Dead, The Full Monty, Dinner at Eight and Billy Elliot.
Additional casting will be announced shortly. Casting is by Stewart/Whitley.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.tuts.com.
