Brigadoon at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre review: it's a neglected classic for a reason

Though it’s charmingly and stylishly done here, Brigadoon is what’s known in the theatre world as a justly neglected classic. A mimsy, shortbread-tin fantasy of magical Scottish romance from 1947, it was Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe’s fourth collaboration, with few standout songs and a laughable plot.

Director and choreographer Drew McOnie’s revival – the first in London since 1988, and the finale to his first season running the Open Air Theatre – just about works thanks to some fine performances, spirited choreography and a strikingly effective Grand Designs set by Basia Bińkowska. But it’s an effort to tough your way through the more saccharine moments.