As spring kicks off, the Benjamin Upper School has an annual occurrence to look forward to: the Spring Musical. This year, the Benjamin Theater Company will be performing Into the Woods. Mr. Jason and Mrs. Alana Arco Peck will direct the musical. Mr. Ransom Miller will be the musical director. There will be three performances: one on Friday (6:30 p.m.) and two on Saturday ( 1:00 p.m., 6:30 p.m.). 

Into the Woods is a musical that combines the stories of various Grimm Brothers’ tales, as well as the story of a baker and his wife attempting to break a curse. The performance combines many classical fairytale characters with a few original ones. 

Senior Alyssa Saraqi explains who she plays: “I am the stepmother, so I am basically playing the classic character from Cinderella.” 

“I’m playing the wolf and prince, so I have two parts to master,” shared freshman Lucas Sanchez. 

Into the Woods is an especially difficult musical to master due to the immense number of lines, lyrics, and actions. Each cast member has a different way of preparing, including running lines with others, practicing in the mirror, and using apps to practice. 

“I am preparing by listening to the soundtrack constantly because the songs are so similar but have different lyrics. Listening to each one helps me learn which lyrics go to which song,” expressed Saraqi. 

“I have been doing tons of practice, especially with Mr. Miller, and it has been going wonderfully and helping a lot,” echoed Sanchez.

Being a part of the musical means many different things to each performer. Some have multiple goals, while others are just excited about the experience. 

Sanchez shares his excitement, “My favorite part about being in the musical is being able to be with my friends and just the upbeat environment in general.” 

Senior Caroline Fuller, who is playing Cinderella, has different reasons for performing: “I have always had stage fright, especially when singing, so I am really excited to get over that and sing for a large audience.”  

In addition to the performers, many other students have been working behind the scenes to create the magical forest-like set, as well as working on music, costumes, lighting, and more. 

Overall, so many members of the Benjamin community have put hours of tireless work into this musical, and cannot wait to show off all of their practice and preparation to their peers, parents, and teachers. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door, but students and faculty are allowed to watch free of charge.

Good luck to all those involved!