This Magic Moment: Choreographer Peyton Walton also plays Rapunzel in INTO THE WOODS

“Our little world is perfect

Or at least so she claims”

Trapped in a tower and tangled up in another's curse, Rapunzel's tragic tale of liberation illustrates the old adage of "be careful what you wish for."

Such fairy tale twists are the hallmark of Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine's iconic Tony-winning musical INTO THE WOODS, which finishes its run in the Jeffers Theatre at HCT this coming weekend, June 18th through 20th.

Returning to the Hickory Community Theatre stage as the character of Rapunzel, as well as Choreographer for the whole production, is Peyton Walton.

A lifelong resident of Boone, Walton is a Substitute Teacher for Watauga County Schools who holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Drama (with a minor in Dance) from the University of North Carolina-Greensboro. She made her Hickory Community Theatre debut as Amber in HAIRSPRAY, after which she went on to be Choreographer for BE MORE CHILL and THE TRAIL TO OREGON!

"The environment at HCT feels very professional," compliments Walton. "Actors and production members are held to high standards which pays off in the quality of the show that is produced. Everyone cares deeply about making the shows that they are a part of the best (and most fun) that they can possibly be!"

Walton is candid about being a choreographer who can "strike fear into the hearts of actors who don't learn their dances." But, she also relishes the opportunity she has in playing the part of Rapunzel. "I had the chance to be in Into the Woods when I was in college and it was a lot of fun! Rapunzel challenges me to sing in a range that I don't always get to exercise."

Performances of INTO THE WOODS are Thursday, Friday and Saturday, June 18th, 19th and 20th at 7:30pm.

Tickets are $18 for adults and $12 for youth and students. The production is recommended for ages 13 and up. Tickets are available at hickorytheatre.org or by calling 828‑328‑2283.

INTO THE WOODS is produced in association with Catawba Valley Health Systems. Hickory Community Theatre is a funded affiliate of Arts Culture Catawba and receives sustaining support from the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. Season 77 support is provided by the City of Hickory, A Cleaner World, Shurtape Technologies, Acuña & Acuña Dentistry, and BellaAge.