Gainesville Theatre Alliance closes season with Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods
GAINESVILLE, Ga. (March 17, 2026) — Gainesville Theatre Alliance (GTA) will close its 2025-26 season with Stephen Sondheim’s beloved musical Into the Woods, running April 10-18 in UNG-Gainesville’s Ed Cabell Theatre.
Featuring music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and a book by James Lapine, Into the Woods brings together familiar fairy tale characters, including Cinderella, jack, Little Red Riding Hood, and a baker and his wife, on a journey through an enchanted forest where wishes are granted and unexpected consequences follow. Directed by University of North Georgia Assistant Professor of Theatre Jacob Theo Squire, the production explores what happens after the promise of “happily ever after.”
Squire’s staging draws inspiration from the illustrated fairy tales of Arthur Rackham and reimagines the musical’s wold through the lens of a pop-up book. As the story unfolds, the familiar brightness of fairy tales gradually gives way to something more reflective as characters confront a world larger than their own individual stories.
“What makes this musical endure is its insistence on connection,” Squire said. “The fairy tale does not end with ‘happily ever after,’ but instead with us choosing to be ‘together.’”
Originally premiering on Broadway in 1987, Into the Woods has become one of Sondheim’s most celebrated works, blending humor, music, and storytelling to explore the complexities of wishes, responsibility, and community. The musical’s memorable score includes songs such as “Children Will Listen,” “Agony,” and “No One Is Alone.”
The creative team features scenic design by Samantha Reno, costume design by Pamela Workman, lighting design by Shelby Ashley, and sound design by Allison Butcher.
An Opening Night Reception on Friday, February 13 will be catered by Johnny’s BBQ.
Into the Woods is recommended for ages 10 and up due to mature themes.
Tickets are available at GainesvilleTheatreAlliance.org or by calling the GTA Box Office at 678-717-3624.