Arts

Theatre Review: The Wind In The Willows

The timeless, lovable and charismatic characters of Kenneth Grahame’s The Wind In The Willows are calling the Adelaide Botanic Gardens home for these school holidays; introducing people of all ages to the many wonders of the Riverbank and Toad Hall.

Presented by The Australian Shakespeare Company
Reviewed 30 Sept 2018

The timeless, lovable and charismatic characters of Kenneth Grahame’s The Wind In The Willows are calling the Adelaide Botanic Gardens home for these school holidays; introducing people of all ages to the many wonders of the Riverbank and Toad Hall.

This interactive outdoor theatre story is led by the Head Chief Rabbit (Matthew Gregan) who is placed in charge of the audience and has the job of leading the crowd through the gardens to the different sets. Helping the HCR with his important jobs is the mischievous Weasel (Paul Morris).  Gregan and Morris are incredibly entertaining throughout the show and their charisma with one another make their scenes both hilarious and memorable.

As we are introduced to Mole (Chloe Bruer-Jones), Ratty (Kaya Byrne), Badger (Adam Tuominen), Otter (Tim Carney), Toad (Chris Asimos) and Portley (Annabel Griffin & Anna Pearce), each character’s charm and wit draws you into this wonderful tale, with strong performances by all.

With something for everyone and jokes a plenty, the audience were laughing from start to finish. And it’s not just the characters storytelling that has you drawn in but also their fantastic musical skills, which have everyone clapping and singing along.

Here are some handy hints to make the most of this not-to-be-missed show: –

  • Pack easy to move picnic snacks (Pack extra to share, carrots are a favourite)
  • Chairs are allowed, you will just need to sit at the back
  • Adults if you can, join the HCR group when asked (trust the strangers to take your children), you will be treated to an act that will have your sides hurting from laughter.

Director Otis Elston and The Australian Shakespeare Company have bought a truly fabulous cast and crew to the Gardens to tell the tale of adventure, friendship, a poop poop motor car and mischievous weasels in an unmissable season.

Reviewed by Tara Forbes-Godfrey

Rating: 5 Stars/Rabbits out of 5

Venue: Adelaide Botanic Gardens
Season: 29 September – 14 October 2018
Tues to Thu 10.00am; Friday & Sat 10am & 2pm; Sun 7 Oct 10am; Sun 14 Oct 2pm
Duration: Approx 2 hours
Tickets: Adult/Child $25-$30; Family (group of 4) $90-$110
Bookings: www.botanicgardens.sa.gov.au

 

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