Watching the next generation of performers is always a treat. The latest production to perform at the Corn Exchange in Newbury was a junior and infant amateur production. Organised by arrangement with Nick Hern Books.

The Wind in the Willows is the classic children’s tale of friendship, loyalty, and adventure. Originally based on the novel by Kenneth Grahame. This particular adaption for the stage has been by Mike Kenny and directed by Victoria Brigg.

As the riverbank comes back to life in the spring, Moles has his first trip in a boat, much to Rat’s surprise. I really liked the attention to the sound effects when the baby otters were being taught to swim, and each one made a splash as they jumped into the river.

Mr Toad was split during the performance by two cast members. The second in the performance I saw was very cheeky and certainly understood the character of Mr Toad and delivered his obnoxious attitude with feeling. It was a highly entertaining performance.

Set and costume designer Carl Davies combined the illusion of Toad Hall, the boundary to the Wild Wood along with Badgers Set, Moles humble abode, and Rat’s home next to the river bank. There’s plenty of suspension of disbelief throughout the production, but it all adds to the magic of Theatre. The attention to detail to the set was superb.

Lighting design by Lawrence Doyle, Sean Caveille, and Tess Marston deserve a special mention. Along with the lighting on stage, they also took it out into the auditorium onto the ceiling, for example, when it began to snow.

For more information about Wind in the Willows and future productions at The Corn Exchange Newbury, please use the link below.

Four Stars

https://cornexchangenew.com/

https://cornexchangenew.com/events/the-wind-in-the-willows