Classic Sondheim musical fairy tale presents moral dilemmas for characters

"Once upon a time..." is how those old fairy tales start, moving through fantasy and adventure with fantastic characters by the handful, until winding up inevitably at the "happily ever after."

The University of Arizona production of "Into the Woods," which opens tonight, delves into the very question of whether or not there is indeed happiness in the fairy tales of youth.

"It's a great choice for a college," said director Chris Wilken. "The demands of it are perfect for a professional training ground, and it's a Tony Award-winning musical, so it's just great for the school. Everyone fell into their parts, even the range when they sing is just perfect. I think that it's just perfect timing to have this show with this group of students."

"Into the Woods," written by musical-theater giant Stephen Sondheim, won two Tony Awards in 1988 for Best Score and Best Lyrics.