Into The Woods **** TNT

There are moments of pure magic in this inspired revival of Stephen Sondheim’s gloriously witty musical twist on the fairytales of the Brothers Grimm.

The leafy theatre provides the perfect backdrop for the adventures of the Baker and his barren Wife who go in search of the ingredients needed to lift the curse of Hannah Waddingham’s vindictive Witch. Their story (here rewardingly conceived as a runaway schoolboy’s re-enactment) intertwines with those of Beverly Rudd’s plump Little Red Riding Hood and a sexually predatory Wolf, Rapunzel, Cinderella and their respective Princes (“raised to be charming, not sincere”) and Jack and his beanstalk.

Things get much darker in the second half with its salutary reminder that getting what you wish for doesn’t guarantee happiness – but this inventive production proves an unmissable summer treat.

Open Air Theatre Inner Circle, Regents Park, NW1 4NR (0844 826 4242) Tube: Baker Street £20-£42.50
Until 11th September