Into the Woods

This was a spectacular debut for a new theatre company, using the unusual surroundings of a concert hall to present this musical with imagination.
From the ceiling dropped the forest, from the balcony dropped Rapunzel’s hair and beautiful use of shadows effected a most satisfying giant.
Balancing the sound of the fine orchestra on stage with the cast took a little time to settle in but was soon resolved.
There was more than a touch of excitement when it was announced that the Witch - Laura Murphy - had  lost her voice. She powered on - but was voiced by Brittanie Shipway - who sat on stage reading and singing for the witch. It was thrilling to watch their almost flawless co-ordination of voice and movement.

There was a fine ensemble of mainly emerging artists in full voice. 

Highlights included the sparkling duet of the song “Agony” performed by the regal looking Haydan Hawkins and Joshua Firman as the Princes.

Matthew Predny impressed as Jack with his rendition of “Giants in the Sky”.

There was plenty of sass from Daniella Mirels as Little Red.

Stage veterans Wayne Scott Kermond as the Narrator and Michele Lansdown as Jack’s mother added dollops of charisma.

This production has plenty to offer Sondheim tragics and those who have never seen the musical live before. 

David Spicer

Photographer: Grant Leslie