Wind in the Willows

The new musical version of this classic children's tale was premiered at Plymouth Theatre Royal about 7 years ago and had a limited run in London. It has become popular with amateur groups not least because many of the roles can be cross cast. Although a lot of the characters are male, they can be played by females just as easily. It can also be played on a composite set with small insets and trucks. It therefore suits many groups.

With music by Styles and Drew, the themes of friendship and loyalty run deep through this story. Although Toad is infuriating, his friends do not disown him. They are happy to continue their support for him through thick and thin – with a little complaining ! The themes of nature and adventure also run strong and ultimately the moral is that good friendship can overcome all obstacles. As a balance to this there are moments of drama in Act 2 and also danger. These reflect the fact that these creatures lives would be fraught with threat at every turn. 

Some of the music is very atmospheric and the show combines moments of real beauty with moments of high comedy (Toad dressed as the washerwoman for instance). It is also a very charming show (The Swallows and Dormice for example).

I love the music to this show, especially the opening number, and the 5  piece live band supported the cast beautifully and with sensitivity. Vocally the cast were first rate and there would some superb performances. In fact the whole company stepped up to the mark with some excellent company work.

The central friendship of Ratty and Mole was nicely portrayed. They gave sensitive and highly professional  performances. Mrs Otter was played at short notice by the choreographer but this was a well judged  performance and that north east accent was perfect. The sometimes bad-tempered Badger was played by an actress who was heavily pregnant. This did not detract from an excellent portrayal. The reason for the story – Mr Toad, was given a larger than life performance which suited the capricious and arrogant personality.  Portia presented the energy and arrogance of youth, but ultimately falling foul of naivety, very well and this was well contrasted by chief weasel who was very snide and conniving, but ultimately cowardly. `A nice contrast to her intended victim Portia. 

There are so many roles in this show that I cannot mention them all and this company played multiple roles between them but highlights were the swallows, dormice, hedgehogs,  the horse, and the rabbit footmen.

A lot of imagination and creativity had gone into the production. Jules directed with a sure hand, ensuring pace was never lost. The home produced set and costumes were wonderful and the look of the piece was fabulous with some excellent lighting design. This choreographer always produces highly inventive choreography and this suited the piece. The company had been well drilled and didn’t put a foot wrong. 

This group always produce a top notch show worthy of a much bigger venue and so it was again here. The technical aspects, the direction and chorography and musical direction were of the highest order. It is always a joy to see a KATS show and they  certainly give societies many times larger a run for their money. 

 

 

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