THEATRE REVIEWS

Lots of expectant children with attentive parents filled the West Yorkshire Playhouse for Kenneth Graham’s well loved story “Wind in the Willows”, which came to life under the direction of Ian Brown. Their gaze was greeted by a sharp expanse of scenery depicting the river bank where the story was to be enacted. “How did they build that?” was one child’s response to being met by such a large set designed by Dick Bird. Impressive it was, and when the characters started to use it it came to life. This production was adapted from the book by Alan Bennett with additional lyrics and music by Jeremy Sams.

Mole (Christopher Pizzey), Rat (Ben Fox), Toad (Malcolm Scates) and Badger (Cameron Blakely) were surrounded by singing, instrument playing animals as they went through the story of life on the river bank. Toad got into his usual trouble and had to be rescued. The caravan, car, river barge and railway engine appeared to add authenticity to the action. Old and predictable jokes made their annual appearance. Weasels from the wild wood took over Toad’s home and had to be thrown out by way of a fight that overflowed throughout the audience, producing chaos and delight by those being trampled on.

Star of the show was Albert the Birmingham cart horse — a magnificent authentic portrayal of a horse and the best you will see on any stage. The actor concerned was Dominic Green who should be very pleased with his work.

This was a play for all the family from very young to very old. Perhaps a little too long for the very young, but they will remember a very entertaining outing. As one young child put it when asked what they thought, “It was loverly”. © BA

“Wind in the Willows” is in Leeds on the 8th December, 2003 to the 14th February, 2004.