I have always loved this musical. It’s one of Sondheim’s best. The original cast had great stars including Bernadette Peters. It was also on Broadway not that long ago, so I had very high hopes for this, the revival with Vanessa Williams as the witch.
What a very sad sight! The show was not that good—almost all of the actors were understudies the night I went. In addition, the set and the show were a huge letdown. I will say, however, that this is a great show for the whole family. Kids will love it, but there are also many funny jokes that go over the heads of young children.
Into the Woods is about three sets of characters who all go into the woods for different reasons. At the end of Act I, they all live happily ever after. Many people think this is the end of the show, and leave!?! Yup, they sure do. Act II takes place after the fairy tale ends. The baker's wife has an affair with the prince, and all does not end happily ever after.
Into the Woods does have a great score—it even won the 2002 Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical. Unfortunately, the last performance at the Broadhurst Theatre took place on December 29, 2002.