This is a bold and vibrant reimaging of a glorious Sondheim classic. Into the Woods where fairy tales collide, romance blooms whilst death and destruction occur.
It is dark and at times tragic but also full of humour and colour.
The childless Baker and his wife go into the woods to break the spell from the neighbouring witch; here we meet Cinderella, Rapunzel, Jack, Princes, Giants and the show-stealing Red Riding Hood (Lauren Conroy) amongst other favourites.
Alex Young (Bakers Wife) commands much of the show; stunning vocals with a glorious mix of pathos and humour. Her duet with the equally excellent Henry Jenkinson (Cinderella’s Prince) is a highlight.
Nathaniel Campbell (Rapunzel’s Prince) completes the royal comedy duo and as predicted “Agony” did not disappoint. Samuel Holmes (Steward) holds his own with great poise and humour.
Lauren Conroy (Red Riding Hood) is a delight to watch, vocally excellent and a great energy. The entire cast works well together and no doubt as the run continues it will settle into a seamless delight.
The images created by Gilliam and Leah Hausman are pop-up picture book perfect; the arrival of Barney Wilkinson (Jack) descending on a huge watch is quite remarkable.
Jon Bauson’s design is surreal and utterly believable. At times it feels that the set dwarfs the performers and is occasionally distracting, the vision is genial and overall works to support the story well.
There is so much to enjoy and clearly will be destined for other venues in times. If you are a Sondheim fan it does not disappoint; if you have not encountered his work before, get along its hard to imagine a better production any time soon.
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Reviewer: Petra Schofield