Wind in the Willows adapted by Michael Whitmore. Cast of three Tom Chapple, Bobby De Courcy and Robert Vend each play a host of characters. Bringing Ratty, Mole,  Mr Toad and his fellow friends to the stage.

Friends Ratty (Chapple) and Mole (Veng) meet up at the start of the Spring and take the audience on a trip along the riverbank as Ratty points out the landmarks and other fellow animal’s homes to Mole, whose natural residence is underground.

Mr Toad ( De Courcy) is an eccentric rich member of the community who is obsessed with the latest fad. The motorcar is the latest invention at the time in which the novel was set and he’s an absolute menace on the road. Ending up in prison due to his antics and escapes desperate to return to his home comforts.

The Musical score by Gideon Escott. hosts some catchy tunes that audiences can easily follow. With a couple repeated I found myself subconsciously singing along.

Staging and props by Jessica Selous as seen in the photos are interchangeable and very effective. The work and design taken to create them allows the cast to swiftly switch between each scene. The strength of the wind proved they had been well made.

With the unrelenting elements battering the stage and blowing some of the props away at times, nothing stopped the cast from continuing. At times the wind made it harder to hear some of the words. Hats off, literally to them as they spoke louder to overcome the obstacle.

The cold blustery evening didn’t deter families and other theatregoers from enjoying the outside production set in the grounds of Hinton Ampner National Trust House. The House itself makes a lovely backdrop to the evening’s event.

If Quantum Theatre are performing near you I would recommend going to watch them. It’s an entertaining production bought to the stage by a talented trio for all the family.

Three Stars

For more information about Quantum Theatre and their work please use the link below.

Photos were taken during the evening by myself.

https://www.quantumtheatre.co.uk/