The Wind in the Willows

Kenneth Grahame’s much-loved children’s novel, The Wind in the Willows, was turned into a musical by Julian Fellowes (of Downton fame), with music and lyrics by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe (also known for Honk!), and debuted in the West End in 2017. The novel evokes joyful memories from childhood in many people and the musical in no way betrays them, managing to retain its childlike innocence and boisterousness in all the characters and songs, emphasising the importance of friendship and loyalty.

This production, by accomplished director Ian Clark, saw the adults of Curtain Up! Productions joining forces with the children of South Downe Stage School, and what a powerful combination this proved to be! MD Lou Bundy ensured that singing standards were top-notch from adults and children alike, and choreographers Sophie Dulake and Emily Goldthorpe had obviously drilled the cast well, ensuring spot-on movement and some lovely images at the ends of numbers.

The curtains opened to a splendid and colourful set (Scenery Solutions), beautifully enhanced by Ian Pratt’s lighting design. SM Amanda Hope’s crew plus cast managed the scene changes, and while some were a little protracted, they all went smoothly. Costumes throughout were wonderful – top marks to Johanna Whatmore and Sophie Dulake for sourcing such imaginative outfits – my favourites were the hedgehogs with their prickles!

Toad, Mole and Rat are key to this production and what a powerful and talented trio we were blessed with. Craig Eves’ Toad was the epitome of arrogant recklessness, always splashing money on the latest fad and endangering his own life as well as others’. His singing was just right for the part. Ryan Richards embodied Mole perfectly, rather timid and nervous about being aboveground, a compassionate friend who endears himself to everyone – especially the audience. Another great singer too. Jay Ebdon as Rat amazed me – his first role on stage and he totally nailed it! What a great actor and singer he is, portraying this worldly, adventurous character with gentleness and determination.

Johanna Whatmore made it obvious that Badger was in charge – commanding respect and obedience from the other woodland creatures. Lorna Hancock’s Mrs Otter was very motherly, safeguarding her ever wandering daughter Portia (a nice portrayal by Amy Newell). Sophie Dulake seemed to be having a great time playing the baddie of the piece: Chief Weasel – commanding the stage, swaggering around in her wonderful stripey suit, causing mayhem and chaos everywhere. Amongst the myriad other characters, Ettie Eves playing the Gaoler’s Daughter, really stood out: what an assured and characterful performance she gave.

The Festival Hall is notorious for sound problems but with Tom Davison in charge, everything was crystal clear, and we heard pretty much every word and the excellent quality backing tracks never overwhelmed the singers.

The full colour programme was of excellent quality, full of interesting information about the show, and the cast and creatives. I also enjoyed your innovative advance publicity on social media with some great photographs – perfect for gathering interest.

What a great production this was! All aspects of the show were of a very high standard, with some outstanding performances, producing colourful and memorable pictures that will stay with me for many years.

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