Veteran director and choreographer Michael Disher. Photos by Eileen Casey

Southampton - To attend a performance of "Into The Woods" that is running at the Southampton Cultural Center's Center Stage (July 9 through July 26), at the Levitas Center for the Arts, one should forget anything and everything you thought you knew or remembered about childhood fairy tales, and sit back and let this ensemble of talented and professional young performers successfully transform your prior interpretations.

Skillfully and professionally directed by the well-known Michael Disher - he is to be commended for bringing this production of Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine's enchanting "Into The Woods" to the East End stage - the cast of 22 - that's right 22 - actors and actresses bring favorite fairy tales to life. I found myself reaching back in time to recall which one was my favorite - be it "Cinderella," "Jack and the Beanstalk," "Rapunzel," or "Little Red Riding Hood - and decided to simply settle in to be entertained by the interpretative storyline of each.

And entertaining this production certainly is - choreographed by Disher as well, with musical direction by Kathleen Papot, in two acts an interwoven storyline of how easily one's circumstances, desires and decisions can dramatically affect another's is attentively revealed.

Kerriann Otano plays the Witch.

Inspired by Bruno Bettelheim's 1976 book, "The Uses of Enchantment," several Brothers Grimm fairy tales explore the consequences of each character's wishes and quests. "Into The Woods" also includes references to several other well-known tales. Some of the stand-out musical numbers include "Children Will Listen," "No More," "Agony," "I Know Things Now," "No One is Alone" and "The Last Midnight."

Without giving away too much - a baker and his wife desire a child - in order to be granted this wish by the local witch, played to perfection by the enormously talented Kerriann Otano (who is thankfully able to dispose of her witch's physcial persona and transformed to reveal the attractive Otano) they must obtain a white cow ("Milky White" - the simplicity of design and construction of which had audience members smiling immediately); a red cape, a lock of yellow hair, and a golden slipper - and to obtain all they must venture "Into The Woods."

With more than 30 numbers, this production is very much a 'fairy tale' for adults, as some younger audience members - although dazzled by the set design and costumes - may tire following the storyline through music and dance, although the 'Narrator' Michael Contino keeps the audience dutifully informed. Here, too, it must be mentioned that the outstanding set design and costumes, again by Disher - this man deserves a vacation! - bring venturing "Into The Woods" an undertaking that draws the audience in on the adventure.

Stepsisters, and stepmother torment poor Cinderella (Emily Hudson).

The individual hardships encountered by the Baker, played thoughtfully and earnestly by Brett Chizever and his wife, the charming Meredith MacBain, and the trials and tribulations of each, including Jack, Stephen D'Amico who brings boyish wonderment beautifully to the role; Cinderella, the lovely Emily Hudson, as well as Cinderella's stepmother Bethany Dellapolla, and stepsisters Florinda and Lucinda, vampily played to the hilt by Laura Aherns and Christine Martinez, respectively, as well as Rapunzel, Isabel Alvarez, and Little Red Riding Hood, played brilliantly by Lauren Rowland (although I don't recall LRRH ever having a switchblade!) drives the storyline - if it sounds complicated - it really isn't - but you do have to pay attention - and this is a production that deserves that attention.

Lauren Rowland plays Little Red Riding Hood.

The 'theatrics' of the production called upon the training and skills of every member of the cast, and in particular the amusing over-the-top 'posing' by both Cinderella's Prince, Jacob Boergesson and Rapunzel's Prince, Christopher D'Amico, as well as the Steward Adam Fronc were hysterical.

This collection of characters, each of whom has something to offer, barter, trade, steal or give to each other, allows for the storyline to unfold with wonderful solo and ensemble musical numbers aided by the evident talents of only three musicians - Papot (piano); Christine Hoerning (clarinet); and Griffin Sargent (Violin). The vocal range and abilities of the principal performers is brought front and center reflecting not only professional schooling but emotion borne of being on stage.

The play concludes with resolutions arrived at perhaps only in fairy tales, however, it is hopeful that the lessons learned by each character related to forgiveness, sensitiveness, maturity and cooperation are lessons we will all carry out of the woods with us.

Jack's mother (Jessica Stolte-Bender), Jack (Stephen D'AMico) and "Milky White."

Following Sunday's performance, I sat down with Disher to discuss this production, who explained that he felt that this particular play "Chose me - much like cats or pets might chose their owner, I felt very excited when this opportunity presented itself as I had seen the production 18 years ago in North Carolina, and I'm not convinced that I actually understood all the facets to it at that time, so I am thrilled to have this opportunity to revisit this as a director, which has allowed me to fully delve into the story."

Commenting on the caliber of the performers he is working with, Disher explained "I don't really know where they come from - they find you [me] - they answer audition notices - and I am always amazed at how one person seems to find that one character that they excel at playing." Disher did indicate that not all cast members are from the East End, "Some are from Dix Hills, Port Jefferson, Freeport, as well as the North and South Forks. They want to be here."

When asked how the performers, many of whom are in school, find the time to rehearse, Disher relayed "I don't know how they do it because I demand a great deal from the casts I work with, and our rehearsal schedules are long, difficult and require a great commitment, but it is fascinating to learn all their capabilities, and I think they are fascinated by what they are capable of as well."

Adam Fronc plays an over-the-top Steward.

Out of the 22 cast members Disher recounted "I think there are maybe only four I haven't worked with prior to this production, and I also teach and coach and am always available to them for any assistance they want - they know that - and that mutual respect and cooperation has allowed me to work with some very talented young men and women."

Elaborating on his multiple roles as director, choreographer, and set and costume designer, Disher casually indicated that "This is not unusual for me. I was taught to be adept and develop ability in all areas of theater production, and I learned it all because I needed to and wanted to. I enjoy being in control of the vision and therefore learned the necessary skills so I could secure that vision."

Joined by Vay David, who has worked with Disher in many productions, and appears as both the Grandmother and the voice of the Giant in "Into The Woods," she commented that "I am always impressed with these young people. Their energy and talent just give me goosebumps sometimes. There is an enormous demand made on them and they rise to it every time."

Under the experienced and professional tutelage and direction offered by Michael Disher it is in no way surprising that actors and actresses would willingly and happily venture 'into the woods.'

Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for students under 21 (Identification Required). Group Rates (10 or more) are available.

For further information, reservations, group rate information or subscriptions, call Southampton Cultural Center at 631-287-4377 or reserve seats via e-mail at reservations@southamptonculturalcenter.org.

Both princes (Christopher D'Amico and Jacob Boergesson) yearn to outdo each other.