Music, vocals and lighting created a fantastical atmosphere on opening weekend for Director Gerilyn Brault’s adaptation of Stephen Sondheim’s “Into the Woods.”

In her third career direction of “Into the Woods,” Brault wonderfully captured the humor, fantasy and horror of decision-making in a world rife with mystical creatures like witches, giants and wolves.

Brault’s veteran touch on the play make this a must-see performance for those both familiar with or new to Sondheim’s source material.

The story tells the familiar fairy tales of Cinderella, Little Red Ridinghood and Jack and the Beanstalk and blends them around a Sondheim-original protagonist duo, a baker and his wife.

A large, hollowed oak stood prominently at the back while gnarled trees and overgrowth covered the stage, subtly hiding an orchestra behind the foliage.

The plain browns and greens in the background brought attention to the well-lit actors, but simultaneously drew the audience into the brambles.

Howard Brubeck Theatre may be small but this helped draw attention to the vocalists and the orchestra — the heart of a musical performance.

Among the production’s 21 songs, a majority featured three or more actors harmonizing.

The simultaneous, contrasting vocal ranges created a unique sound for each song with very audible lyrics, making it clear that a lot of work went into casting the appropriate actor for their role.

The orchestra, conducted by Jesus Carreon Rosas, blended beautifully with the music direction of Ellen Weller.

The fusion of instruments and song tethered the mood whether it was a comedic ensemble from the princes played by Jameson McDonald and Drew Low or a melancholic ballad performed solo by The Witch, Mya Feiga.

As the tone of the play changed dramatically entering Act 2, the sound and stage atmosphere transitioned seamlessly thanks to the lighting.

The bright greens and yellows of the first act converted to dark blues and reds to reflect the reality that happily ever after can sometimes come with consequences.

Many emotional spectrums present themselves across the playtime of “Into the Woods,” and Palomar Performing Arts utilized its lighting, vocal talent and instrumental support to create a performance that kept audiences on a clear and enjoyable path throughout.

Even without the stereotypical fairy tale ending, “Into the Woods” shines in a performance filled with light, catchy tunes and lively acting that all audiences can indulge in.

Showtimes for “Into the Woods” will continue until March 15. For tickets and showtime information, visit the Palomar Performing Arts website.