Wind in the Willows - The Georgian Theatre Royal, Richmond, Teesdale Mercury

Wind in the Willows - The Georgian Theatre Royal, Richmond

Jun 23, 2010

WIND in the Willows has always been one of my favourite stories. It is one of those timeless tales which will still be enjoyed for many years to come, especially as it transfers from page to stage so well and in so many different ways, it is always a joy to see a new production of it and this production certainly does not disappoint.

The tales, faithfully followed, are told by four actors Dominic Goodwin as Toad, George Neville as Ratty, Stephanie Preacher as Mole, and Sarah Kurth not as Badger as you might expect but with the unusual addition as Deazly the Weasel. The cast begin well before the show starts by interacting with the audience and getting to know the children watching, as they become part of the show at various stages including as hedgehogs in The Wild Wood.

The stage is well set with an array of props which, with a little imagination, become the boat, a barge, a train, a prison and of course finally Toad Hall. The action is slick and well paced. The acting was superb throughout especially Dominic Goodwin a regular at this theatre, one of my favourite stage actors.

A fantastic family show.

A J Harrison