Firstly, Into The Woods at Ye Olde Rose & Crown in Walthamstow. I first saw this show a gazillion years ago at the Redgrave in Farnham and while I didn't fall in love with the show, parts of it stayed with me including Sondheim's concept and a few of the numbers. Since then Giants InThe Sky has been a staple at graduate showcases and of course, the Stephen Sondheim Singer of the Year Awards. Tim McArthur's eloquent production reinvents the concept of the fairy tale and equates the 'I Wish' characters with reality TV stereotypes. It's a HUGE gamble but McArthur pulls it off in style. Catch it if you can as it runs until October 31st
Light years away from Walthamstow, I was extremely lucky to have caught Gypsy at the Festival Theatre in Chichester. I seem to have been waiting ages for this production - it had been rumoured for at least two years - and the West End has not seen a production since Angela Lansbury in 1974. Its unlikely I am ever likely to see a better production of this, one of my favourite shows. The design, orchestra, performances all wonderful, particularly Lara Pulver as mother damaged Louise and especially Imelda Staunton as a slightly unhinged Momma Rose. Seriously stunning work from Imelda that should - if and when the show comes to London - win her every award going. Sell your children for a ticket!
