My only previous experience of Into the Woods was the film version, which I didn’t love. So I was unsure what to expect from the Bridge Theatre’s production of the musical. But I’m happy to say it was a fabulous show with an exceptional cast and a perfect atmospheric set.
I do have to admit a small disclaimer, in that one of the Into the Woods cast, Jo Foster (playing Jack), is a cousin of mine. But that only influenced my decision to go and see a show that I was unsure about. And I’m very pleased I did, as the Bridge has created another excellent production. Although it was surprising to walk in and find that the flexible Bridge auditorium can be configured for traditional end-on staging.
Into the Woods is a Stephen Sondheim musical, so while it features familiar Brothers Grimm fairytale characters, it’s not all about happy endings. The story revolves around a witch’s curse placed on a Baker (played by Jamie Parker) and his wife (Katie Brayben) for the sins of the Baker’s father, which means the couple can’t have children.
The witch, brilliantly played by Kate Fleetwood, says the curse can only be broken if they bring her Cinderella’s shoe, Little Red Riding Hood’s coat, Rapunzel’s hair, and the milky white cow owned by Jack (of beanstalk fame).
Desperate for a family, the couple venture into the woods to secure the items they need. Chaos ensues as their paths cross with the principals, whose own famous stories overlap, and a variety of supporting characters. And of course, there are musical numbers aplenty with every member of the cast getting an opportunity to shine.
It all plays out on a stage that starts with a pitch-black backdrop and then opens to a woodland filled with trees and birdsong. It’s the perfect setting for the characters whose costumes also look the part.
Although Into the Woods opened before Christmas, it’s no pantomime. Instead, it’s the story of a rather dysfunctional family of characters, some of whom meet a tragic end and some who get a happy ever after of sorts. Not unlike real life, really, rather than the fairy tales that inspired the show.
Into the Woods is booking at the Bridge Theatre until 30 May 2026. For more reviews of theatre, art, comedy and music, check the Arts section of my blog.
