I waited my 7 1/2 hours and got an amazing seat in the dead center, right where the seats rise up. And though it wasn't the cleanest, I was surprised by many of the new elements and had a great time. (I was just so happy to see Donna Murphy!)
I agree with what most people are saying on the opening, it was a little crazy and I had to try and figure out who was singing what, but the extra choreography was actually kind of nice.
The baker/baker's wife had a cute connection, but I didn't think Denis O'Hare was the best he could have been. There were many times I couldn't understand what he was saying. I thought Amy Adams was great though. From what I read, I almost expected it to be not up to par, but she was one of my favorites.
I loved the witch, but the costume in Act 1 was so odd. The dreads just didn't work for me. She did make one line flub, but the way she covered it actually made it a very funny piece. She was a little out of sync in Stay With Me, but she got on track and it was a great performance. There were moments I expected her to belt, but she seemed held back. Everything was made up for when she sang Last Midnight. That was the best of the entire night. She was absolutely perfect and it sounded so eerie. And the transformation was quick!
The set proved to be pretty dangerous though. With the flooring, I saw one of the princes fall as well as the Witch. I almost thought the dress ripped or she got hurt (it was after the transformation) because she almost looked like she was limping, but then she was fine.
The wolf part wasn't offensive, I was just surprised. And pleasantly surprised what they did with the Witch climbing the tower. Added some nice comedy.
And I thought the giant was anamatronic when it first came out!
Overall, I had a great time and really hope I can see it again! The time on line was well worth it!
broadwayguy - I think the biggest difference in the orchestrations is the doubling. There's normally 2 trumpets, 2 horns, 2 violas, 2 cellos, where this production has one. I think most of that doubling is just for extra color - I've played the horn book and horn 1&2 are essentially identical.
It looks like the Witch and the stepsisters are not pictured. If the picture is from "Ever After," which it appears to be, they may be offstage waiting to go on for their part in it.