Aussie Twist on Sondheim Classic: Into The Woods Reimagined

The University of Adelaide’s Elder Conservatorium of Music is thrilled to present a bold new production of Into The Woods – the Tony Award-winning musical by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine – reimagined with an unmistakably Australian flair.

Showing at the University of Adelaide’s Scott Theatre from Thursday 24 April to Sunday 27 April, this vibrant reimagining, directed by guest artist Miranda Middleton, features the third-year Music Theatre cohort – the graduating class of 2025. Middleton’s vision transforms the traditional fairytale forest into an Australian suburban dreamscape, drawing on the aesthetics of iconic local music festivals

“Our unique spin on Sondheim’s masterpiece is set in a nostalgic Australian suburbia – when hills hoists and double denim were king, and smartphones didn’t exist,” Middleton says. “When our characters venture ‘into the woods’, the design aesthetic evokes the magic of great Aussie music festivals – think Splendour in the Grass, Lost Paradise, Woodford Folk Festival… mystical places in their own right, where anything can happen under a bit of moonlight and eco-glitter.”

Into the Woods offers a modern take on classic fairytales, intertwining familiar characters from the Brothers Grimm – Cinderella, Jack Little Red Riding Hood and Rapunzel – as they each chase a wish. But this story doesn’t end in a simple “happily ever after.” Actions have consequences and the characters must reckon with the results of their choices exploring deeper themes of morality, love, loss and responsibility.

Actor and third-year Bachelor of Music Theatre student Sophie Carmody, who plays Little Red Riding Hood, says the process of working on this this reimagined production has been incredibly rewarding.

“It’s very rare that you get the opportunity to take a classic work and challenge the status quo. It’s exciting as a performer to play, invent and reinterpret the work,” Carmody says. “I’ve loved collaborating with our supportive and talented creative team, as well as my spectacular cohort. I’m thrilled to share this production with audiences.”

Music Director – University of Adelaide lecturer Peter Johns – and the 13-piece orchestra bring the complex score to life, honouring Sondheim’s meticulous musicianship and lyricism. The intricate lyrics, rich orchestral ostinatos and melodic motifs enhance storytelling, character development and emotional depth.

Ellie Esdene McMahon, who plays the Baker’s wife, says the production offers space for reflection on the state of the modern world. “I hope this production encourages audiences to see Into the Woods through a fresh lens – one that emphasises the impact we can have as a community,” McMahon says. “Our interpretation highlights the complexities of navigating global issues, and the consequences of both our individual and collective actions. It underscores themes of choice, agency and responsibility for the world we live in.”

Into The Woods runs from Thursday 24 April to Sunday 27 April 2025

For tickets and more information, please visit the the University of Adelaide website