Southern University students to present ‘Into the Woods’ at Frank Hayden Theater

Students at Southern University and A&M College are preparing to present the first full-scale musical theater performance on campus in years. Beginning Thursday, April 16, the Frank Hayden Theater stage will be set for James Lapine's "Into the Woods." The Tony Award-winning musical brings together classic fairy tales while exploring themes of ambition, choices and personal growth. The show is free and open to the public.

Southern's production is directed by students Brianna Fields and Million Reanu, and theater instructor Malcolm Evans.

"This production means everything to me," said Fields, who is majoring in mass communication with a minor in theater. "It's not just about putting on a show it's about bringing musical theater back to Southern, and creating something that people can connect with and be proud of."

Southern students of various majors are working on and off the stage, including set design, costumes, Lighting, music and choreography.

"The students have really been working hard and we encourage the campus and overall community to come experience a dynamic production," Evans said. "This performance reflects the continued effort to reestablish the Frank Hayden Theater as a space for student talent, creativity, and artistic expression at Southern University."

"Into the Woods" follows well-known Brothers Grimm fairytale characters such as Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack, and the baker and his wife as their journeys connect in unexpected ways. As their wishes begin to come true, they are faced with the reality of the choices they've made and what comes next.

Showtimes are:
Thursday, April 16
6 p.m.

Friday, April 17
6 p.m.

Saturday, April 18
3 p.m.

Sunday, April 19
3 p.m.

Doors will open 30 minutes prior to each show time.

To support the speech and theatre program, go to http://bit.ly/4tcpsUd.