This is an exhilarating and impressive production of Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine’s popular musical.
Confession time: this was the first time I had the pleasure of experiencing this deliciously dark and playful musical on stage and on the back of this production it is hard to imagine that any other staging has been quite as brilliant as Jordan Fein’s production.
Transferring from the Bridge Theatre, Into the Woods is filled with an extraordinary energy as characters from popular fairytales written by the Grimm Brothers including Little Red Riding Hood, Cinderella, Rapunzel and Jack and the Beanstalk come together to explore what happens after the happily ever. Surrounding them is the baker and his wife, who are desperate for a child of their own but discover that they are under a curse by a witch and have to go on a quest to break it.
It is clear throughout that Jordan Fein and the creative team have thoroughly enjoyed putting this production together. As well as leaning into the darker moments in the show, there is a real gleefulness to it as well that makes it impossible to resist – whether it is the two princes preening and swaggering around or the wolf trying to lure Little Red Riding Hood, it is clear that plenty of care and attention has been given to each moment in the show.
But what is also impressive about Fein’s production of this complex musical that has many different layers to it both musically and plot is that it is confident and never truly falters – the energy levels are high throughout. Perhaps towards the end of the first act it begins to feel slightly sluggish – but that is more down to the fact there is almost too much going on plot wise.
The musical supervision of Mark Aspinall ensures that gorgeous music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim shine throughout. Vocally everybody is completely pitch perfect – particularly impressive given the complexities of the lyrics and how they have been arranged musically, highlighted from the get go on the Prologue. There is also great soul and feeling on display during ‘No One is Alone’ that packs a powerful punch as does ‘Children Will Listen’ – the uttermost respect for the material is on display.
But it is also a treat visually. Tom Scutt’s set design adds a claustrophobic and intimate feeling to the production that keeps the focus on the characters beautifully, meanwhile Aideen Malone’s lighting design is equally as stunning capturing the different tones of the story perfectly – the way in which it is highlighted there is a giant in the presence of the other characters is very cleverly done.
Credit should also be given to the cast who all work their socks off to bring the characters to life so delightfully, while dealing with the demands of the music extremely well. At the centre of it all, Kate Fleetwood delivers such a deliciously mischievous Witch and she really relishes every moment of the show. Laura Pitt-Pulford as the Baker’s Wife is just as captivating to watch, a perfect match for John Dagleish’s Baker – there is a lovely chemistry between them. Lucas Koch as Rapunzel’s Prince and Matthew Seadon-Young (who also plays the Wolf) as Cinderella’s Prince provide plenty of amusing swagger – with the rendition of ‘Agony’ proving to be a real highlight.
Overall, Jordan Fein and everyone involved with this production could not have done a better job of showcasing Into the Woods. Simply stunning from start to finish.
Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Into the Woods is booking at the Noel Coward Theatre until the 9th January 2027.