Bernadette Peters, a name celebrated for unparalleled talent and versatility, remains one of Broadway’s brightest stars. Among her legendary roles, her portrayal of the Witch in Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods stands as a defining moment in musical theater. Peters’ ability to weave humor, menace, and humanity into this complex character set a new standard for the role and cemented her reputation as one of the greatest performers on stage.

This article explores Peters’ captivating performance, the significance of Into the Woods, and how her work continues to influence theater to this day.

The Genius of Into the Woods

Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods reimagines classic fairy tales, intertwining familiar characters like Cinderella, Jack (of beanstalk fame), and Little Red Riding Hood. The story begins as a lighthearted exploration of wishes and dreams but evolves into a profound examination of consequences, morality, and the human condition.

At the heart of the narrative lies the Witch—a pivotal figure who drives much of the plot. While traditionally seen as the antagonist, the Witch in Into the Woods is far more complex. She embodies loss, sacrifice, and a raw honesty that forces other characters to confront their realities. The role demands exceptional range, blending dark humor, emotional depth, and soaring musical performances.

Bernadette Peters: Redefining the Role of the Witch

When Bernadette Peters took on the role of the Witch, she transformed a character often written off as a one-dimensional villain into a multi-layered figure full of contradictions. Her performance was a masterclass in storytelling, balancing the Witch’s sharp wit and vengeful nature with surprising vulnerability.

From her very first scene, Peters commanded the stage with an energy that was both intimidating and magnetic. Her delivery of Sondheim’s intricate lyrics captured the Witch’s complexity, while her expressive acting revealed the humanity hidden beneath the character’s rough exterior.

One of the most striking elements of Peters’ performance was her ability to shift seamlessly between emotions. She could deliver cutting humor in one moment and heart-wrenching sorrow in the next. This emotional agility brought a sense of realism to the Witch, making her not just a villain but a woman shaped by pain and loss.

Unforgettable Musical Performances

Sondheim’s score is notoriously challenging, but Bernadette Peters navigated it with absolute mastery. Her vocal performance as the Witch remains one of the standout elements of Into the Woods, showcasing her exceptional range and emotional depth.

• “Stay with Me”: This tender ballad, sung to Rapunzel, revealed the Witch’s maternal love and fear of abandonment. Peters delivered it with such vulnerability that audiences couldn’t help but empathize with her character’s desperation.
• “Last Midnight”: This explosive number highlighted Peters’ vocal power and ability to convey anger, defiance, and resignation all at once. She brought the house down with her commanding stage presence and electrifying delivery.
• “Children Will Listen”: Perhaps the most haunting song in the musical, this piece encapsulated the show’s central message about the consequences of our actions. Peters sang it with a gentle yet poignant touch, leaving a lasting impact on audiences.

Her performances not only showcased her technical brilliance but also brought deeper meaning to Sondheim’s lyrics, elevating the material to new heights.

Critical Acclaim and Cultural Impact

Bernadette Peters’ portrayal of the Witch earned widespread praise from critics and audiences alike. Reviewers lauded her ability to bring empathy and complexity to a character often portrayed as a straightforward antagonist. Her performance challenged traditional perceptions of the Witch, adding layers of humanity that made the role unforgettable.

The success of Into the Woods was amplified by Peters’ involvement. The musical became a critical and commercial hit, securing its place as a Broadway classic. Peters’ interpretation of the Witch set a high bar, inspiring countless future performers to approach the role with similar depth and nuance.

Beyond Broadway, Into the Woods has remained a cultural touchstone, with revivals, adaptations, and performances continuing to honor Sondheim’s legacy. Peters’ iconic portrayal remains a benchmark, often referenced as the gold standard for the role.

Bernadette Peters: A Lasting Influence on Broadway

While Into the Woods is a highlight of her career, Bernadette Peters’ influence on Broadway extends far beyond this one role. With a career spanning decades, Peters has consistently delivered powerful performances in productions such as Sunday in the Park with George, Annie Get Your Gun, and Gypsy. Her unmatched ability to bring characters to life with authenticity and emotional depth has solidified her status as a Broadway legend.

Peters’ work has inspired generations of performers to strive for excellence in musical theater. Her dedication to her craft, coupled with her natural charisma, continues to set her apart as a true icon of the stage.

Why Bernadette Peters’ Witch Still Resonates

The brilliance of Bernadette Peters’ Witch lies in her ability to highlight the character’s duality—both the monster and the mother, the villain and the victim. She brought a level of realism and complexity to the role that resonated deeply with audiences.

Her performance reminds us that even the most seemingly unredeemable characters have motivations, fears, and vulnerabilities. By stripping away the Witch’s facade, Peters gave audiences a character they could relate to, even as they feared her power.

Conclusion

Bernadette Peters’ portrayal of the Witch in Into the Woods remains one of the most celebrated achievements in Broadway history. Her ability to blend humor, menace, and raw emotion elevated the role, redefining what the character could represent.

Her work on the show not only helped solidify Into the Woods as a timeless classic but also cemented Peters’ legacy as one of the greatest performers in musical theater. Her performance continues to inspire new interpretations of the Witch, leaving an indelible mark on Broadway and the hearts of theater lovers everywhere.