STORYBOOK FAVORITES: Beloved characters come to life for Off-Centre Stages’ production of “Into the Woods” at Mercer County Community College January 19-21.

James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim take characters known and loved and bring them together in the musical Into the Woods, being presented January 19-21 at the Kelsey Theatre on the campus of Mercer County Community College in West Windsor.

The story follows a baker and his wife, who wish to have a child; Cinderella, who wishes to attend the King’s Festival; and Jack, who wishes his cow would give milk. When the baker and his wife learn that they cannot have a child because of a witch’s curse, the two set off on a journey to break the curse. Everyone’s wish is granted, but the consequences of their actions return to haunt them later, with disastrous results.

The production is set in a high school drama/music classroom at the fictional Trinity High — which is scheduled for demolition — with former students gathering for one last reunion. One of them opens a book, and the students are transformed into the beloved Into the Woods characters.

Show dates and times are Friday, January 19 at 8 p.m., Saturday, January 20, at 2 and 8 p.m., and Sunday, January 21 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $24-$26. Visit kelseytheatre.org.