Ottawa’s Ovation Productions returns to the stage on Thursday, October 24, with its most ambitious production yet, Into the Woods, a beloved multi-award-winning musical by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine.
Ovation Productions, the only fully professional musical theatre company in Ottawa staging full-scale musicals, has earned a reputation for producing high-calibre shows that feature some of the city’s most talented performers, musicians, and creative minds.
Following on the heels of their successful production of Cabaret, the company is thrilled to bring Into the Woods to the local stage, offering a unique opportunity for Ottawa audiences to experience this modern classic.
At the heart of Into the Woods lies a story that weaves together well-known fairy tale characters like Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, and Jack from Jack and the Beanstalk, all on a journey filled with dreams, wishes, and the consequences that follow. The Tony Award-winning musical’s enchanting score and touching narrative bring these characters to life in ways that feel both familiar and entirely fresh. The show balances whimsical, humorous moments with thought-provoking themes about responsibility, choice, and the unforeseen results of our actions.
Ovation’s production of Into the Woods will showcase the talents of numerous local professionals, both on stage and behind the scenes. Chantalyne Beausoleil, a De La Salle High School graduate, will take on the role of Rapunzel; Sofía Contal, an alumna of Colonel By High School, and Cara Pantalone, who attended Holy Trinity High School, will also be featured in the production, highlighting the rich pool of local talent that Ottawa has to offer.
While some members of the creative team did not grow up in Ottawa, many have made the city their home. Gab Desmond, who has lived in Ottawa for 12 years, and Angela Burns-Crowley, who has been part of the community for nine years, both play important roles in bringing this production to life. Nathan McConnell, the stage manager, returns to Ottawa after living here for 15 years before moving away, contributing his extensive experience to the show’s smooth execution.
Behind the scenes, Patrick Bowman is the music director and leads the seven-member band, which is made up of Ottawa locals who will provide the live score. Tanya Guimond serves as the producer for Into the Woods. Though originally from Toronto, Tanya has called Ottawa home for over a decade, earning three degrees from the University of Ottawa. Working alongside her is her husband, Alex Omiccioli, Ovation’s master carpenter, who has lived in Ottawa for 11 years. Together, they ensure that every detail of the production is crafted with care, from the intricate set designs to the overall stage presentation.
For Ovation Productions, Into the Woods represents the culmination of years of dedication to professional musical theatre in Ottawa. Established in 2018, Ovation has quickly become a key player in the city’s cultural landscape, offering fully professional productions that entertain and elevate the local arts scene by showcasing homegrown talent. This upcoming season marks Ovation’s third, with each production building upon the success of the last.
As part of their commitment to making theatre accessible, Ovation Productions is offering a Pay-What-You-Choose tiered pricing option for the matinee performance on Sunday, October 26, at 2 p.m. This initiative provides an excellent opportunity for a broader audience to enjoy a professional musical production, especially for those who may otherwise be unable to attend due to cost. It’s a reflection of Ovation’s dedication to fostering a deeper connection with the Ottawa community by making live theatre more accessible to all.
For musical theatre fans, Into the Woods offers a rare opportunity to experience one of Sondheim’s most celebrated works performed by a fully professional company in Ottawa. The show’s exploration of fairy tale characters navigating the consequences of their wishes resonates with audiences of all ages, blending humour, heart, and an unforgettable score into a performance that lingers long after the curtain falls.
As Into the Woods makes its way to Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe, Ovation Productions continues to cement its reputation as a leading force in Ottawa’s theatre community. The company’s commitment to professional artistry, combined with its focus on featuring local talent, ensures that this production will not only captivate audiences but also serve as a celebration of Ottawa’s thriving arts scene.
Whether you’re a long-time theatre enthusiast or someone looking to experience a professional musical for the first time, Ovation Productions’ Into the Woods promises an evening of entertainment, wonder, and reflection. Tickets for the show are available now, and with the excitement surrounding this production, they are expected to sell quickly.
For more information about the show, ticket prices, and Ovation Productions’ future events, visit them online at www.ovationproductionsottawa.com.
Where: Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe, Les Lye Studio Theatre, 101 Centrepointe Drive
When: Thursday, October 24 until Sunday, November 7, 2024
What time: From Tuesday to Sunday at 7:00 p.m., with an additional showing at 2:00 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday
Tickets: From $46.75 to $104.25 (group pricing available) • Click here to purchase tickets or call 613-580-2700
