No leads in Into the Woods...?

I was just watching the original production of ITW on DVD, and was just thinking to myself is it true to say that there are actually no leading characters/roles in this show. Certainly the way the original production was directed, Lapine seems to make out that it is truly an ensemble show and that they are all considered 'featured' or 'supporting,' similar to that of an ensemble television show. I mean, I can't figure out whether the Witch is a lead or a supporting role, the same with the Baker and his Wife. I think they're all supporting. It's a great ensemble show to be part of, imo, because there's a real sense of community about the whole thing. Reminds me of the old Gilbert & Sullivan shows where the composers made sure they created no leading roles, so as to keep that 'family' feel within their companies.

I found it ridiculous that John McMartin was nominated for leading actor (despite his top billing) for his Narrator in the 2002 revival... I suppose in the hope that several performers will be nominated they had to split into leads/supporting roles, but I think that that is invalid when it comes to this show.

The Baker and his Wife are the emotional heart and "leads" of the story. HOWEVER, a director could chose to focus more say, on the Witch and she could be the through-line lead. Or you could cast Anne Hathaway as Cinderella, focus on her and give her a leading nomination.

The piece really is an ensemble show material wise, but it seems to all revolve around the Baker and the Baker's Wife.

According to Equity all of the named roles are principal roles and therefore on principal contracts. When I did the show at one of the big regional theaters they considered the Witch, Jack, Little Red, Cinderella, Baker and Baker's Wife the "leads" (i.e. private dressing rooms, etc.) and everyone else was supporting (though everyone was paid on a principal contract). But I think it just depends on the theatre and the contract.

They did mean it in the loose sense of the word not in a precise technical sense such as billing/tony awards/contracts etc.

I do think the Baker's wife and Witch are leadingish though. Certainly more than say CHORUS LINE, which is a true ensemble show IMO. I didn't realise Cassie's role was so small until I saw (the revival production in Aus) two days ago.

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Updated On: 7/22/12 at 12:20 AM

The character with the through-line is actually The Baker. Without spoiling it for those who don't know the musical, it's clear that all of the stories ultimately dovetail into his. Ironically, he has no solo. (Yes, many verses of duets but no actual solo.) Zien and Rosa were both superb; I loved them both for different reasons, with Zien having the slight edge. t I think a production as yet conceived could be strategically built around the character, ironically. The Witch is a showy role; but if you're explicating the theme, the plot and its emotional catharsis, stick to The Baker. He endures, and he carries forth the lessons of the show.

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Updated On: 7/22/12 at 03:20 PM

I'm just curious and interested. So if you're not willing to share any valid information, can you please stop hijacking this thread. Thanks!