Review: Wind in the Willows
Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame was first published in 1908 and is as engaging today as it was over 100 years ago.
A lovely tale of river and woodland characters, Mole, Ratty and Badger and their obnoxious, boastful, irritating but equally lovable friend Toad.
Well known for Theatre in the Forest, Red Rose head to their home at the Avenue Theatre for this Christmas offering. The theatre offers a relaxed and intimate space in which to enjoy this delightful story.
Writer and director Joanna Carrick once again displays her talent in taking a great story and making it so much more engaging. The screams of delight coming from older audience members as well as the youngsters is testament to the skills of Jo and her team of three actors. Darren Latham as Ratty, Rei Mordue as Moley and Matt Penson as both Toad and Badger, (all familiar faces to those who visited the company’s summer Shakespeare offering), turn in stellar performances.
They not only have fun in their roles but also with the audience (especially the younger ones) as well.
For those familiar with Grahame’s original book, it’s all here, jam-packed into 90 minutes of non-stop action, slap-stick and imaginative direction. The team at Red Rose have the ability to take a good story and turn it into a wonderfully entertaining performance.
Great fun for all ages. It’s a must see and a lovely festive treat for the complete family.
Wind in the Willows is at The Avenue Theatre, Gippeswyk Ave, Ipswich until 31st December. Box Office 01473 603388 or www.redrosechain.com.
Review: Mark Keable Ipswich24 Magazine.
Pictures: Bill Jackson
