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Idina Menzel Takes Center Stage in Redwood

Idina Menzel has made her much-anticipated return to Broadway with the new musical Redwood, a production that creatively embodies the majestic California Redwood forest through towering set designs. Recently, Menzel shared insights into the rigorous preparation she undertook for her role during an appearance on The View.

“It was a blend of hard work and exhilaration,” Menzel reflected on the training process. She mentioned that the choreographers of the show belong to BANDALOOP, a unique vertical dance company known for performing on the sides of mountains, trees, and buildings. “They helped me adjust to the demands of climbing and swinging, which are integral to my character’s journey. The experience has a poetic quality to it. Unlike a typical documentary, this production fuses cinematic elements with an intimate storyline that is filtered through my perspective,” she explained.

The inspiration for Redwood stemmed from Menzel’s fascination with a woman who spent over 700 days living in a tree as a form of protest against logging practices. “Her courage and conviction were so inspiring to me,” Menzel said. “It made me wonder, ‘How could I exhibit that level of bravery?’”

While discussing her current and past roles, Menzel highlighted her connection to two beloved characters: Elphaba from Wicked and Elsa from Frozen. She noted, “Both characters learn to harness their inner power and unleash magic, demonstrating how they can effect change in the world. They serve as a profound inspiration for me, especially as they lead substantial groups and communities.”

Redwood centers on the character of Jesse, portrayed by Menzel, who appears to have it all— a flourishing career and a loving family. However, a pivotal moment leads her to distance herself from her familiar life. She finds herself beneath the towering redwoods of Northern California, where an unexpected encounter and a daring choice set her on a transformative journey. The musical delves into themes of strength, resilience, and healing, depicting the transformative power of nature and self-discovery. Currently, the production is captivating audiences at the Nederlander Theater.

Source
www.broadwayworld.com