URGENT UPDATE: The San Francisco Playhouse has just launched a dazzling new production of the Broadway classic ‘Into the Woods’ in Union Square, promising a magical experience this holiday season. Running now through January 17, 2024, the show intertwines childhood fairy tales with poignant themes of community and consequence, making it a must-see for families and theater lovers alike.
Co-founder and producing director Susie Damilano emphasized the show’s relevance, stating, “It’s all the fairy tales we grew up with. In Act One, we see characters’ wishes come true. In Act Two, we confront the consequences.” This duality resonates deeply this year, reminding audiences to ponder the true cost of their desires.
At the heart of the production is a new narrative thread featuring a baker and his wife yearning for a child. Damilano described the woods in the story as a metaphor for the characters’ journeys—both enchanting and treacherous. “I decided that having magical, mystical woods would be the way to go,” she explained. “They represent our collective unconscious—beautiful, but with many tangled things in there, just like our own minds.”
Damilano was visibly moved during the production’s full rehearsal, expressing that it “takes my breath away” and touches “deep in our soul.” She notes the importance of community, especially as theaters rebound from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. “We’re filling our houses,” she said, highlighting the revitalization of Union Square. “People are out playing chess and ping pong again; the Christmas tree is up, and there’s ice skating. It feels good.”
With its familiar characters and themes of family, loss, and longing, ‘Into the Woods’ is designed to enchant audiences of all ages during the festive season. Tickets and showtimes are available now at sfplayhouse.org. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the magic and meaning of this beloved musical right in the heart of San Francisco.
As the holiday spirit fills the air, this production serves not only as entertainment but as a poignant reminder of the strength of community and the complexities of our wishes. Secure your tickets now and be part of this captivating experience!
