Into The Woods: A Poetic Exploration of Stephen Sondheim
'Into the woods without delay / But careful not to lose the way.'
* This course will take place on the video-conferencing platform ZOOM *
Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods is a masterclass in lyricism, where complex narratives intertwine with poetic depth. This workshop will explore the poetic power of Sondheim’s lyrics, analysing how he transforms emotional and thematic complexity into evocative, musical language.
We will examine how Sondheim’s lyrics function as poetry, focusing on his use of rhythm, rhyme, and emotional resonance. Through close readings of key songs like ‘No One Is Alone’, ‘Children Will Listen’, and ‘Giants in the Sky’ participants will uncover how Sondheim employs poetic devices such as metaphor, alliteration, and ambiguity to create multi-layered meaning and heighten emotional impact.
The workshop will delve into how Sondheim’s lyrics reflect universal human experiences –exploring themes of ambition, growth, consequence, and personal transformation. Through close reading, participants will gain insights into how Sondheim uses language to deepen the emotional weight of the musical, both as a storytelling device and a poetic expression.
The session with serve as an inspirational jumping off point for your own writing, giving practical tips as to how you might apply these techniques to your own poetry, lyrics, or creative practice.
1 x 2.5-hour session, running 6.30–9pm (BST), on 11 April 2025. This course will take place on the video-conferencing platform ZOOM.
To apply for a concession rate, please send relevant documentation showing your eligibility for one of our concessions to [email protected]. Conditions of eligibility are detailed here. More information about how our Video Courses work can be found on the Video Courses page. If you have any questions or wish to be added to the waiting list of a sold-out course, please email [email protected].
Image credit: Zoltan Tasi
About A.C. Smith 
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A.C. Smith is a playwright, poet, and story consultant whose work focuses on interdisciplinary collaboration and bringing true stories to life dramatically. Her poem-plays have won awards from the RSC and Soho Theatre. She has been a member of the Southbank Centre’s New Poets Collective and developed work with the Bush Theatre, HighTide, Old Vic, and RADA. Selected works include TO ROSE ON HER 18TH BIRTHDAY (Barbican with CRIPtic Arts), THE BOMB (BBC Radio 4), and LOCK & KEY (VAULT Festival, Pick of the Week in The Stage.) She co-founded London Playwrights’ Workshop and has taught playwriting at RADA and Royal Central School of Speech & Drama. www.ac-smith.com.
"My confidence about being an able poet grew ever since I started taking Poetry School courses. There were tons of people who were saying this was only a hobby and I managed to break that boundary within myself thanks to Poetry School. Also, I met some very outstanding teachers and terrific fellow poets."
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