MSM Musical Theatre presents Stephen Sondheim’s beloved classic Into the Woods for TWO weekends, March 28-30 and April 3-6, in Neidorff-Karpati Hall.
Into the Woods follows your favorite story book characters as they venture into the woods to fulfill their deepest wishes. However, their fairy tale endings come with unexpected consequences, exploring themes of fate, responsibility, and the price of wishes.
Meet junior musical theatre major Nia Alsop, who plays the Witch!
Nia told us about the production, how she stepped into the Witch’s shoes, and her time at MSM so far!
ABOUT NIA ALSOP
Nia Elaine-Marie Alsop (BM ’26) currently studies under the tutelage of Janeece Freeman Clark. A versatile and passionate performer, she began her training at the Theatre Lab in Washington, DC, where she played roles such as Older Sandra in Big Fish. She later graduated with honors from the vocal department at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts, where she studied classical voice, gospel, and jazz as a member of the Show Choir.
At MSM, Nia’s credits include originating the role of Sandra in Forget Me Not, as well as Freshman Pops and The Witch in Into the Woods. Nia is also an active member of MSM’s Black Student Union and has performed in their annual Black History Month Concert. Other theatre credits include Madame de la Grande Bouche in Beauty and the Beast at Legacy Theatre.
With a love for both theatre and music, Nia is dedicated to honing her craft and looks forward to making her mark on Broadway, in film, and beyond.
Don’t miss Nia as the Witch MAR 28-30!
MSM MUSICAL THEATRE
Into the Woods
MAR 28 | FRI
7:30 PM
MAR 29 | SAT
2 & 7:30 PM
MAR 30 | SUN
2 PM
APR 3–5 | THURS–SAT
7:30 PM
APR 6 | SUN
2 PM
Music and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim
Book by James Lapine
Evan Pappas, Director
Lorna Ventura, Choreographer
David Loud, Music Director
Talk-back immediately following the Sunday performances
Tickets Required
$30 adults, $15 non-MSM students and seniors
Neidorff-Karpati Hall
130 Claremont Avenue
New York, New York 10027
Tell us about Into the Woods! What is this musical about?
Nia: I think Into the Woods is about many things, but for me personally, it’s a reflection of human nature and our innate desire for what we don’t have. The brilliance of the show lies in the fact that it doesn’t outright critique or promote these desires—it simply invites the audience to examine both the consequences and the rewards that come with wishing.
It’s also a story about the beauty of love, which we see through various relationships, especially in the makeshift family that forms by the end. At the same time, we witness the pain that comes from the absence of love, most notably through the Witch and her deep isolation from those around her.
You’re playing the role of the Witch! How have you stepped into this character’s shoes?
Nia: I have the honor of playing The Witch! She’s often seen as the antagonist or anti-hero of the show, but I love her dearly and deeply understand why she does the things she does. Stepping into her shoes has been both the easiest and most challenging thing—if that makes sense. It has required me to get very personal and draw from experiences where I’ve felt like the “other,” isolated, or unwanted. Unfortunately, being a Black girl in America has given me more than a few moments like that to pull from. But tapping into that pain has also been incredibly empowering—it’s allowed me to reclaim those feelings and channel them into something raw, honest, and transformative on stage. Playing the Witch has reminded me that there is strength in vulnerability and power in being misunderstood.
What has been the biggest challenge with the role?
Nia: One of the biggest challenges with this role has definitely been the vocal demands. The Witch’s music is incredibly complex—Sondheim gives her some of the most rhythmically tricky and emotionally layered songs in the show. Balancing the precision required to hit those rhythms and pitches with the emotional intensity of the character has really pushed me as a singer.
Nia Alsop in Forget Me Not Fall 2023
Why should people see this show?
Nia: First and foremost, people should see this show because my incredible castmates and I have worked tirelessly to bring this beautiful story to life. But beyond that, you’ll leave feeling inspired—whether it’s inspired to be a little kinder, to chase after what you really want, or to never go into the woods again. There’s something in it for everyone.
Why did you decide to study at MSM?
Nia: Ever since I was little, I knew I was going to study music in New York City. As I grew older, my goals evolved, and I discovered my love for theatre as well. When the time came to choose a school, MSM was the perfect fit—renowned faculty, an incredible musical theatre program, and, of course, New York City.
But I think the moment I truly knew this was the place for me was when I saw their 2022 production of Sunday in the Park with George. I sobbed multiple times throughout the show and thought, “I can’t believe I get to study here.” Shoutout to Lyda Jade!
“Playing the Witch has reminded me that there is strength in vulnerability and power in being misunderstood.”
Name something from today’s world you think the Witch would love!
Nia: I think the Witch would love the radio, so she can play tunes while tending her garden.
What song from Into the Woods would you, Nia, add to the soundtrack of your life?
Nia: I love the Witch, but I’m trying to lead a drama-free life, so I would add No One Is Alone.
Describe Into the Woods in three words!
Nia: Lots. Of. Tears.
