The light-hearted musical version of Kenneth Grahame’s book will delight audiences, both old and young. Tim Farr reviews it
With Wicked enjoying an 11-year run on the West End and Matilda having rave reviews night-after-night, the new production of Wind in the Willows is looking to follow the success of children’s-story-turned-big-musical.
This version, playing at the historic London Palladium, sticks very closely to Kenneth Grahame’s original book but with all new songs and a few additions to fill out the show.
The story unfolds in a human-less world of riverbank animals that, for the most part, live and work harmoniously together for the good of each other and Mother Nature.
Things take a turn when the exploits of the thrill-crazed Mr Toad become uncontrollable as he jumps from one fad to another, without any thought to the consequences his actions have on himself or those around him.
This leaves his friends Rattie, Mole and Badger always scrabbling to clean up the mess Toad leaves behind – something must be done!
This bold, bright musical with lovely tunes and cartoon like special effects, will be a huge hit with the children in the audience and those who are unfamiliar with the story, but whether it has enough to melt the hearts of the theatre goer with a few more years under their belt remains to be seen.
The most charming parts of this musical version are the “fillers” to the story. A lovely snow-filled Christmas scene with some Wassailing Mice singing a lovely tune gives a warm feeling inside, and a touching and funny song sung by a family of hedgehogs trying to cross the road steals the show.
Wind in the Willows starring Denise Welch, Gary Wilmot and Rufus Hound as Mr Toad will be great for children’s groups, school trips, family outings and is running until September at the London Palladium.
