Stephen Sondheims musical Into The Woods is updated to an urban setting, telling the story of two children lost in the hood.
An evil landlord befriends the children and offers to look after them and help them get home if they will work for him. Reluctantly, they agree and are sent off to steal gold trainers, a red hoodie, hair extensions and an Ipod. While doing this they meet some almost familiar characters Spinderella, her cruel stepmother and ugly stepsisters, Lil Red, Wolf, Rap-on-zel, Giant and Jaxx. In the end, despite the landlords double-dealing, the children are able to return home and all receive their just desserts.
At the back of the stage is a large screen onto which is projected video, which is seamlessly integrated into the live action. At the beginning, the two children are seen on the screen running away from their school and they then appear through the screen on the stage. This technique is used throughout the performance to expand it beyond the confines of the stage. This is an extremely talented dance company using modern technology very professionally.
The dancing is excellent throughout the whole company, from the youngest upwards. The first ensemble piece, which featured ten masked and hooded dancers had a genuine air of menace, which showed the dangerous hood into which the children had strayed. This mood was quickly dissipated and there was a great deal of humour throughout the performance, the highlight probably being a martial arts fight staged in slow motion which was rewound and acted again in super-slow motion. A packed and enthusiastic audience helped to ensure a vibrant atmosphere. Highly recommended.
