Ad Astra has made their triumphant return to the Brisbane stage, now in their sparkling new home at Petrie Terrace. And what better way to celebrate than by diving headfirst into a beloved musical theatre classic with Sondheim’s enchanting Into the Woods?
Opening night was a black tie affair, which saw the proceedings commence with heartfelt speeches. Judging by the long list of thank yous, it’s taken a village to bring this new creative hub to life.
Formed in 2018, Ad Astra Theatre Company was initially located in a repurposed office block in Fortitude Valley. There, they produced 30 productions and showcased hundreds of emerging and re-emerging creatives both on and off the stage.
That theatre was demolished this year, and their new complex, formerly home to Brisbane Arts Theatre, houses four amazing spaces – Galaxy, Pluto, Cosmos and Halley’s Cottage. This new hub promises exciting opportunities for Queensland creatives.
Into The Woods, directed by Tim Hill, is playing in Galaxy, their charming, fully renovated proscenium arch theatre. Sightlines are excellent and the theatre has fantastic air conditioning!
Since premiering on Broadway in 1987, Into the Woods has enchanted audiences with its clever blend of fairytale and reality. Written by Stephen Sondheim (music and lyrics) and James Lapine (book), the production earned three Tony Awards, including Best Score and Best Book.
The show has since enjoyed numerous revivals and reimaginings across the globe. In 2014, it reached an even wider audience with Disney’s star-studded film adaptation featuring Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt, and Anna Kendrick.
The story brings fairytale favourites including Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack (and the Beanstalk), and Rapunzel together with a baker and his wife, who are on a quest to break a witch’s curse. Each sets out with a wish, and their adventures cross paths in the enchanted woods.
At first, it feels like a joyous collision of happily-ever-afters. But as the story unfolds, those wishes come with unexpected twists. The characters are forced to confront what truly matters: responsibility, community, and the stories we leave behind.
As The Narrator, James Shaw’s presence anchors the production. Offering both guidance and wry commentary, he is an essential thread in the fabric of the show. Shaw’s deadpan delivery, laced with just the right hint of knowing irony, brings a subtle humour to the role.
Elliot Baker steals the show as Cinderella’s Prince, capturing the essence of the hilariously self-absorbed royal. With every exaggerated gesture and perfectly timed line, Baker leans fully into the character’s delusions of grandeur, making him irresistibly entertaining.
Jaya Fisher-Smith brings a fabulous energy to Rapunzel’s Prince, matching Elliot Baker in swagger and absurdity. Their performance of Agony is a show highlight, which they somehow manage to top in Act Two with the song’s reprise. Look out for Fisher-Smith in another role in the show, which I’ll leave as a fun surprise.
Heidi Enchelmaier brings warmth and emotional nuance to the Baker’s Wife. Her endearing presence makes it easy to root for her, while her strong vocals, especially in Moments in the Woods, bring real depth to her character’s inner conflict.
Into the Woods boasts some of the most iconic songs in musical theatre, and this production does them justice with some standout performances. Giants in the Sky is beautifully handled by Alex Watson. He brings Jack’s youthful energy and wide eyed wonder to life with his rendition.
As the Witch, Natasha Veselinovic delivers a powerhouse performance in Last Midnight, blending both fury and pain. Jordan Malone delivers a heartbreaking performance of No One is Alone as Cinderella. She brings a sincere, emotional intensity that can be felt across the theatre.
Special mention goes to Aysa Garcia Wong’s haunting, operatic tones as Rapunzel. The collective vocal strength of the cast is undeniable, and by the end, you’ll find yourself humming the songs all the way home.
It’s a real joy to see the live band on stage, with musical director Ben Murray also on keys. The musicians add a layer of theatricality and immediacy to the storytelling.
The latticed backdrop set, designed by Tim Hill, effectively frames the fairytale world. Andrew ‘Panda’ Haden’s lighting helps shift tone and focus throughout. Tess and Jem Hill’s costumes suitably evoke a faraway land. Creative sound design by John Taylor (JTAP) sees giants brought to life through thundering footsteps and a bellowing voiceover that adds real impact.
Into the Woods celebrates the opening of Ad Astra Theatre Company’s stunning new venue and reaffirms their place as a vital force in Brisbane’s theatre scene. This production is a testament to the talent, vision, and love that fuels the company. If it is any indication of what’s to come, Ad Astra’s next chapter promises to be nothing short of magical.
Into The Woods runs to 18 October at Ad Astra Theatre Company’s Galaxy Theatre, 210 Petrie Terrace Brisbane Qld 4000.
Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1399278
Website: https://www.adastracreativity.com/productions/into-the-woods
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/adastratheatrecompany/
Photo credits: B’rit Mobbs, By Brit Creative
