This summer in St. George, a magical forest is growing inside The Historic Electric Theater—and it’s filled with princes, peasants, ball gowns, and beanstalks. The Stage Door invites audiences to step Into the Woods, where beloved fairy tales are turned on their heads in Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine’s iconic musical. Performances run June 19 through July 12 at the beautifully restored downtown venue at 68 E. Tabernacle Street.
For director Sterling Hanks, this production marks an exciting debut, shared with experienced co-director Jalee Scott. Together, they guide a talented cast through an enchanting, funny, and emotionally rich journey. Audiences will meet characters they thought they knew—Cinderella, Jack (of beanstalk fame), Little Red Ridinghood, a childless Baker and his Wife—only to discover new depth in their dreams, decisions, and consequences.
The cast is led by Mimi Knell as the mysterious and commanding Witch, Eric Humphries as the earnest Baker, and Ashlie Davenport as his determined wife. Jackson Betts brings youthful charm to Jack, Amanda Butler is a firecracker as Little Red, Mattea Denney adds elegance and heart to Cinderella, and Tim Merkley plays her dashing but conflicted Prince. Together with a vibrant supporting ensemble of local talent, they bring the forest—and its many secrets—to life.
Musical direction by Amy Gleave and choreography by Rosa Lee White ensure each scene pulses with energy and heart, while Stage Manager Kristen McPhie keeps everything running smoothly behind the curtain. The immersive woodland set, designed by The Stage Door Artistic Director Josh Scott, transforms the stage into a whimsical world of magic, mystery, and transformation.
At its core, Into the Woods is a story about what happens after “happily ever after.” As characters chase wishes—a child, riches, beauty, adventure—they soon realize that getting what you want can be more complicated than it seems. Hanks reminds us, “The lyrics are ‘wishes come true, not free.’ Every wish has a price.” With humor, heart, and Sondheim’s unforgettable score, this show explores the tangled roots of family, responsibility, and what it means to live in community.
Performances begin at 7:30 pm, with a matinee on July 5 at 2 pm. Tickets are available at stagedoorutah.com or at the door one hour before showtime. Dixie Direct and group ticket inquiries can call (435) 656-4407.
Whether you’re a fan of fairy tales, musical theater, or just looking for a magical night out, Into the Woods at The Stage Door is the summer production not to miss.
