Columbia’s ‘Into The Woods’ Enchants SOMA
The Columbia High School Musical has wrapped another stunning run as its 2026 production came to a close. Into The Woods played to six sold-out crowds, marking a triumphant return to the CHS Stage after several years of playing off-site so repairs could be completed.
The casts of Into The Woods dazzled the crowds with the modern classic show by Stephen Sondheim with book by James Lapine, which intertwines familiar childhood tales to tell a bigger, life-lesson of a story. Cinderella, Jack and his beanstalk, Rapaunzul, Red Riding Hood and an all-purpose Witch, among others, all made appearances in an exciting and thoughtful production. Aided by actor “puppeteers,” who filled the roles of woodland life, and a talented and omniscient storyteller, the show ended with the audience on its feet every night.
The stars of Columbia were out in fall force for this production, with breathtaking performances from CHS stage veterans and ingenues alike. Behind the scenes, backstage and in the lobby, student engineers and stage crew pulled off a flawless and professional production. The sets wowed the audience, too, with student-constructed scenery and props so magical, audiences were transported into that beautiful-yet-spooky clearing in the woods night after night.
CHSMPA congratulates the incredible cast and crew on an amazing production.
CHSMPA also extends its congratulations and deep gratitude to the dedicated production team and staff, headed up by Director/Choreographers Bethany Pettigrew and Britt Shubow Keshner and producer James Dyer. Huge thanks go to this incredible team, including Vocal Music Director/Associate Producer Jacob C. Ezzo; Instrumental Music Director Nicholas Diaz; Lighting Designer/Technical Director Tara Marie Abbondante; Associate Directors Robert Cohen, Brian Kaplan, and Maria Eberline; Set Designer Louis J. Medrano; Costumes by Meyvi Gorey- Lead and Janet Tzraska; Head Of Props Alison Merrick; Hair & Makeup by Glyniss Goff; and Set Construction by Marc Matalon. This unbelievably dedicated and talented team puts up a show every year that is the pinnacle of the Columbia High School experience.
And, as always, CHSMPA congratulates and thanks the fleet of parent volunteers that make this show possible.
CHSMPA is proud to support Into the Woods and the CHS Musical every year as a sponsor and fundraising partner. We believe musical theater offers a uniquely valuable educational experience that goes beyond what happens on the stage, and we’re thrilled to help this production thrive at Columbia. You can help CHSMPA help programs like Into the Woods by donating now or becoming a member.
Most pictures courtesy of CHS Student Aidan Heindl.