The Wind in the Willows

Although the first manuscript was written and published by Kenneth Graham in 1908, there have been numerous editions since and eventually the play was adapted by Alan Bennett in 1990, but still remained true to its original roots depicting the various adventures of Toad, Mole, Ratty and Badger.

Nothing was lost in this charming quintessential English first time production by Alex Stallard, as Toad and his friends ventured on the riverbank, the road, into the Wild Wood and even escaping from prison, Toad is eventually restored at Toad Hall.

All the main principals were well cast. Our loveable hero ‘Toad’  was played by Christopher Gaunt; full of energy, expression and a mischievous smile leaving us in no doubt that after all the adventures, mishaps and lessons learnt, thankfully he could never change the bad habits of a lifetime.  ‘Ratty’ played by Michael Treagust immediately struck a chord as a very responsible and loyal friend, particularly to ‘Mole’ a generous and eventually brave companion. A bespectacled Ketziah Broad gave a great characterisation to Mole and worked well with Michael as their friendship grew. Adrian Over as ‘Badger’ also had great presence, serious and sometimes gruff he tried very hard to mend Toad’s ways.

The individual sets depicting the homes of Ratty, Mole and Badger were charming and detailed, and some other large props made a great impact. The opening scene on the river bank with Ratty’s smooth moving boat was very effective and Toad’s car and his caravan, the latter pulled by his poor down trodden horse ‘Albert’ (John Birchley) plus the train, were wonderful editions to each scene. The scene changes were smooth, but I think some appropriate light background music during some of them, would have maintained the atmosphere during a couple of silent periods. There were also a number of musical items introduced throughout, which were well delivered. 

In support of the main principals, there were some other convincing performances from Ed Butler as the oily ‘Chief Weasel’, his somewhat simple assistant ‘Weasel Norman’, (Daniel Whitehouse) and the Bargewoman (Glynis Smith). Both The ‘Magistrate’ (James Cowlishaw) and the ‘Washerwoman’ (Amanda Norcott) gave us some amusing moments and all the remaining cast including youngsters from 8 years of age depicting other animals, all added to the charm of the play.

The adventures of Toad and all his friends were enjoyed by an enthusiastic audience including a large proportion of youngsters and I enjoyed it too!

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