Fabulous festive fairytale at Newbury's Watermill theatre

Rapunzel at The Watermill, Bagnor until January 1. Review by ROBIN STRAPP

The Watermill’s magical production of Rapunzel by Annie Siddons with music by Tom Attwood is the perfect Christmas show for the family.

Six highly-talented actors, who are also accomplished musicians, bring a delightful playfulness, physicality and energy to the story, played out on Isobel Nicholson’s enchanting set filled with surprises.

Miiya Alexandra plays loving mother Gothel who finds the baby Rapunzel and brings her up as her own. She is a clever herbalist, known for her healing powers.

As Rapunzel grows up, Gothel locks her in a tower in the dark forest, surrounded by sharp vines, to ‘protect’ her. The only way she can gain access is when Rapunzel lowers her long hair so she can climb up and down.

Tilly-Mae Millbrook is impressive as the headstrong Rapunzel, desperate to escape the confines of her ‘prison’ and be free to enjoy life.

Meanwhile, back at the Tuscan palace, the Duchess (Miiya Alexandra) has chosen Patrizio – charmingly played by Loris Scarpa – as her heir, much to the angst of his brother Paulo (Roddy Lynch) who plots to kill his sibling and steal the throne for himself.

While touring the countryside Patrizio discovers Rapunzel in the tower and they fall in love, only to be thwarted by Gothel, who cuts off Rapunzel’s long hair off and banishes her to wander the forest.

The two lovers set off on a quest to find each other, facing many challenges on the way.

Emma Barclay provides much comic fun as Pierluigi, as well as playing Ambrosi and Baldozi with gusto.

Making her professional debut, Jess Lobo plays the helpful Prezze, who assists Patrizio in finding Rapunzel.

There is so much fun created by this versatile cast, with enthusiastic audience participation, loads of references to the current economic situation, catchy tunes and even a song sheet.

Look out for the trumpet-playing pig with a secret, as well as some beautiful puppetry, including dancing butterflies.

Imaginatively directed by Lucy Betts, this is a must see!