An annual tradition at the wonderful Watermill Theatre is a festive retelling of a classic story, eschewing the panto vibes for something of a more literary nature. And this year’s undertaking is Rapunzel. The classic story this time follows a young Rapunzel who is locked away when her adopted mother fears losing her. But her dreams of escape see her become romantically entangled with a young prince fleeing a murderous brother.

With such an intimate space as the Watermill it often requires a more modest ensemble. This leads to a lively production with our sextet of actor-musicians rarely off stage, adopting multiple parts and instruments, giving the show a pace as they rollick towards the expected ending. Tilly-Mae Millbrook makes a spirited impression in the titular role, with an easy chemistry exhibited with Loris Scarpa as their romantic interest. The pair are charming, either together or apart, as the narrative weaves them into each others company before thrusting them apart. There is a moral complexity to the villains of the piece with both Roddy Lynch and, in particular, Milya Alexandra, showcasing villainy born out of a sense of duty (for Lynch) and love (Alexandra). You’ll be moved by Mother Gothel and amused by Paulo, even if their acts prove particularly wicked.

Amongst the ensemble everyone is given moments to shine, with an impressively physicality that inventively represents some of the more lavish moments. There are a pair of scene stealing turns, with Jess Lobo bringing warmth and wit to the moral complexity of Prezze, whilst Emma Barclay’s Amrbosi is a hilarious addition, drawn further and further into proceedings against their will.

Director Lucy Betts effectively marshals the production into shape, aided by a strong script from Annie Siddons (originally a Kneehigh Theatre show) that blends light and dark to a dazzling effect. All this is aided by technical wizardry and an effective set from Isobel Nicolson. There’s a beauty to a Watermill festive show, as the intimate space envelopes you, with actors entering through the auditorium and directing dialogue to us from the balcony. A moment with a giant gold crown dangling from above is resplendent but sadly not repeated. This Rapunzel is one that sparkles with technical prowess to match the warmth and wit on stage.

There is an impressive darkness to this production that can lead to whiplash. As the audience descends from Rapunzel’s tower and takes in the brutality of the world around them, there is a tricky balancing act of tones with some rather perplexing details that feel straight from the Brothers Grimm version of this story. But just as these threaten to grind the show down, the production will throw in a comedic animal or a witty one-liner, restoring the delicate balance of Grimm and panto that Rapunzel manages.

I was joined at this performance of Rapunzel by my 6 year old daughter and shall hand the final word to her:

This show was really fun and exciting. I really liked the songs and was glad there was a happy ending.

She said she couldn’t wait for the next Watermill Christmas show. I’d say that that is a hit by anyone’s standards and I too can’t wait to return to this fabulous venue.