Kalanee and Aaliyah Wicks as the baker and his wife in Horowhenua College's lastest production Into The Woods Jnr.
Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack (and his beanstalk) and the Witch are all part of the lyrical retelling of classic Brothers Grimm fables known as Into The Woods Jnr, which is the current production by staff and students from Horowhenua College.
The musical centres on a baker and his wife, who wish to have a child; Cinderella, who wishes to attend the King's festival; and Jack, who wishes his cow would give milk.
When the baker and his wife learn they cannot have a child because of a witch's curse, the two set off on a journey of trials and tribulations to try and break the curse.
First time assistant director student Aaliyah Wicks, who also plays the baker's wife, has loved her dual role although at times found directing her peers a little challenging.
"Remembering to stay professional and not joke about with the other cast when directing my scene was a bit difficult," she said.
Wicks has been acting on Levin stages since she was little, but really enjoyed taking on a production role for this show and said next time she'll probably choose to direct only.
The cast is made up of students from Year 9 through to Year 13, most of whom have been studying drama while at college. The crew is a mix of students and teachers, and the majority of props and costumes have been provided by Levin Little Theatre.
Director and HOD drama Samantha Wehipeihana chose Into The Woods Jnr because it was a little different to your traditional school production.
The number of character roles, and how much time they got to be on stage was also a consideration.
"This production gives our students a lot more opportunities to shine," Wehipeihana said.
With awesome young local talent, fabulous costumes, amazing character makeup and a run time of just over one hour, this is the perfect show for young and old to enjoy.
Into The Woods Jnr opens in the Horowhenua College hall at 7pm this Friday, May 21 with performances on Saturday, May 22 at 7pm and Sunday, May 23 at 2pm.
The season continues next week on Thursday, May 27 and Friday, May 28 with the final night performance on Saturday, May 29 - all at 7pm.
Tickets for the production, priced at $10 for adults and $5 for students, are available directly from the college's front office, and by phoning 06 368 6159 or emailing office@horowhenua.school.nz.