MIDD-WEST- This year, the annual Midd-West Middle School musical is set for Nov. 15 and 16; the students will be performing “Into the Wood Jr.”

Every year, since the building opened in 2004, the musical has been a staple in the Middle School culture, this year’s advisers are Erin Auman and Ashley Kuhns.

“I have been part of advising on six shows and this is Ashley’s fifth middle school show,” shared Auman. “This is the fourth show that Ashley and I have teamed up to do at the middle school.”

This year’s performance was chosen for its inclusivity to all participating students; according to Auman, the decision to showcase “Into the Wood” was made because each student cast has a role with an opportunity to have a solo.

The story centers around a baker and his wife who wish to have a child. Their house has been cursed and they need to collect items within three days time and provide them to the witch, who lives next door, so she can break the curse. Their journey forces them into the lives of some fan favorite fairy tale characters including “Cinderella,” “Little Red Riding Hood,” “Jack and his Beanstalk” and even “Rapunzel” and her wicked mother.

“This show has been more difficult to prepare than other shows we have chosen in the past because the composer is known for his works being intricate and challenging for singers,” explained Auman.

Participating students are only in 6th and 7th grade, meaning they have big musical shoes to fill, according to Auman.

The students have been rehearsing since September on their solos as well as some challenging group numbers, some of the students will even have the opportunity to try their hand in choreography and have been working hard to prepare for that.

“It is impressive to see how strong they have become throughout all of the rehearsal time. We love seeing how much they grow from the first rehearsal to show week,” shared Auman. “It is very rewarding to get to share our musical theater knowledge with them and help to teach many of them the basics of being in a show onstage. This allows them to start their theater journey and we can see them grow in theater throughout their middle and high school career.”

The curtain will rise at 7 p.m. both show nights, tickets are $5 for students and $8 for adults. Tickets will be sold at the door.