Quaker Valley Middle School returns with 1st live performance in a year

Quaker Valley Middle School students will return to the stage for the first time in a year to present the musical “Into the Woods Jr.”

Students will perform the musical May 6-8 live at the Moon Park Amphitheater. The performance will only be available to see live – it will not be streamed.

Musical director Tom Forrest said the Stephen Sondheim classic tells the story of a baker and his wife who want to start a family, but are unable to because of a witch’s curse. Along the couple’s journey to break the curse, the musical also incorporates different elements of fairytale stories.

An estimated 75 students have been rehearsing for the show since March, putting in more than 100 hours of practice. To ensure safety, small groups are called to rehearsal depending on the scenes for the day. Thursdays are reserved for everyone to practice.

Unlike previous shows, this one will be performed outside, presenting unique challenges for the group, Forrest said.

“We could face getting rained out to the audio not working,” Forrest said. “The amphitheater is close to the airport as well, so we will be working with plane noises.”

Costume designer Stella Christensen said for this show, she had to keep in mind issues outside of what students would face if they were performing on an indoor stage.

“We have to think about the weather and temperature since things like dance shoes aren’t mean to be worn outside,” Christensen said.

Students will also have to make sure to articulate their words and emphasize their movements because they will be wearing their masks the entire show, Forrest said.

Despite the challenges, students were happy to have some kind of normalcy.

“It’s nice to see everyone and be able to be around people again,” said Jack Miller, who is in eighth grade and plays the baker.

Sophia Smith, a seventh grader who plays the witch, shared the same sentiments.

“It is nice to interact with others,” Smith said. “It has been great seeing it come together.”

Tickets will cost $7 for students and seniors and $10 for adults. Rain dates are May 13, 14 and 15. The show will start at 8 p.m. but the time may be adjusted.

For more information, visit qvsd.org.