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I am in the process of choosing a show for our middle school and am torn between Into the Woods and Honk (probably their Jr. versions). We have a cast of 6 -8 th graders that is relatively inexperienced (no real "super stars").  I am wondering if anyone has any advice on which one they would steer me to doing.  I should also say that every grade in our school participates (Gr 1-8) each class gets to sing one song from the show.  Therefore I need to have a show with enough songs and songs that are "appropriate" for younger students to sing.  I would appreciate any feedback anyone has.  Thank you !

Hi Kristen!

A few years back I had the joy of producing Honk Junior with my Middle School students. 130 students from grades 5 through 8 where in the production. If you go to the Honk Jr. site on Showspace and Click "View All" in the photo section, I have pictures posted under "Gowanda Middle School proudly presents Honk! Jr"

I really did not know anything about the show prior to choosing it. To this day, it is still one of my dear favorites and would highly recommend it to anyone. It has an awesome "catchy" score, a great "classic" storyline and plenty of places in the show for different groups to be on stage (ie. Any number of Poultry Actors for "A Poultry Tale", Frog Actors in "Warts and All", GeeseActors in "Wild Goose Chase", etc.).

In my opinion, Into the Woods Junior is very charming and weaves through many classic fairytales, however it is musically challenging. Gotta love Stephen Sondheim! I feel it may be musically over the heads of your younger students (grades 1 -4).

Hope this helps! - ADAM

Given your description of "first timers" and "no superstars", I wouldn't be willing to try and tackle "Into the Woods" (Junior or otherwise). That's just my opinion, based on seeing /listening to the production. I haven't directed it (yet).

We did do Honk! Jr. a few years back, and I *HIGHLY* recommend it. The music from Stiles and Drewe is brilliant. There are opportunities for all ranges of skills from silent background characters, to heart felt solo's from a grieving mother. 

Shameless self promotion plug: See our Slideshow from the production.

ps. I'd direct it again in a shot, if they'd let me.

pps. Also look at "Dear Edwina" - often overlooked, and under-rated. A fantastic show, easy to produce, great cast and audience appeal.

I've directed "Into The Woods, Jr." with kids in 6th-12th grade and then again with kids in 4th-10th grade.  Of course, much easier the first time:) I think it's the most vocally challenging show in the Broadway Jr. series. You really need to have 4-5 strong female vocalists and 4 strong male vocalists. Even the supporting roles are vocally challenging. I agree with Adam and Andrew that "Honk" sounds like the right choice.  The story is moving and the music is "catchy" (and easy to learn and retain). There are a few tricky dissonent harmonies within the "Honk" score, but in all pretty accessible. Both Edwina and Honk give you the opportunity to cast quite a few speaking parts, which is always welcome especially in a school setting. Break a leg! cj

Thank you very much for your advice everyone ! It certainly helped.  We are going with Honk ! (the full versions since that is what we have always done and the kids enjoy them.)  I am looking forward to it!! Thank you again !! and good luck with your productions.