The Wind In The Willows

The Wind in the Willows is possibly one of the most popular stories in existence. The name of the author (Kenneth Grahame) may be a name known to most of us. The programme kindly reminded me the book was first published in 1908 and of course tells the tale of Mole, Rat, Badger and Toad.

This was my first visit to Whitchurch let alone Whitchurch Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society (WAODS). The venue was a first for the society, having them needing to vacate the Civic Centre due to RAAC.

On arrival at the venue I was warmly met by the Chairman and Vice President. I was delighted to have a guided tour of the venue, which included a sneek viewing of the set and props, these appeared impressive in the wings however, I was to be pleasantly surprised just how good they were as the show progressed.

The thrust stage with seating to the front and both sides as well as lighting rig and scenery cloths had transformed what was otherwise a sports gym. The configuration of seating enabled action to take place ‘off stage’ right in front of our eyes.

Mole played by Ollie Holding worked well with Ann Likeman as Rat. Both brought out the best of their characters. They were charming and delightful throughout starting from when they spent time rowing down the river singing ‘Messing About in Boats’. Taking charge was David Thompson- Pearce as a great and confident Badger. Allie Turner was excellent as the kind-hearted but arrogant Toad with great enthusiasm.

The four key characters were supported by actors playing smaller roles and an ensemble. Lucy Wainwright played Enid (Toad’s housekeeper) who opened the show with a well delivered song, ‘Wind in the Willows’ and again sang  when assisting with the escape from jail ‘Home’ along with Toad. Other parts included Joe Mort as Hawkins, Leanne Massey as The Judge, Holly Wainwright as The Clerk, Karen Ikin as The Bargewoman and Max Barlow as Chief Weasel.

The ensemble worked well together. I particularly enjoyed the search for Toad (allowing for a set change) with four policepersons running around the auditorium with a torch and effective lighting – was somewhat Keystone Cops (for those of a certain age!).

The set was fabulous with a wonderful rowing boat (pulled by the grey coloured horse – Black Beauty played by Justin Hodnet who also later pulled the canal barge equally wonderfully. The caravan was delightful and colourful with mole on board. Stealing the props crown however was Toad’s car as it was driven around the ‘auditorium’. I imagine Allie had great fun driving this. On stage furniture was effective and good use was made of the space available especially during the court room scene.

Costumes were good thanks to costume manager Kristina Bates, especially those worn by Toad but each cast member had attention to detail whether by means of ears, make up or tail.

Music numbers were fitting for the story under the leadership of David Stokes. The supporting coconut sound effect for Black Beauty was great.

This was a delightful production which was well directed by Lee Hallwell - Williams and Jason Wainwright.

Post show I was delighted to present to the society in front of the cast and the audience a well-deserved 100-year certificate having first performed ‘The Gondoliers’ in 1924. It was recognised the society have come through a World War, the pandemic and now challenges with their usual venue.

I was sorry WAODS Honorary Life President Win Webb aged 102 years was unable to make the performance.

Congratulations on this wonderful achievement and here’s to the next 100 years.

Somewhat closer however is WAODS next production – the ever-popular musical ‘Annie’ coming to the stage in October 2024.   

Thank you for an entertaining afternoon.

Andy Brown

West Midlands Regional Councillor.

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