THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS

This simple, delightful tale, told perfectly by the vision in tweed that is Tony Robinson, is the first West End transfer for the Royal Opera House.

The set is decorated with a suit of armour, a grandfather clock and other artefacts often to be found in a crumbling country mansion. In a dusty attic we meet our author, Kenneth Grahame, narrated by Robinson, who returns to the stage for the first time in 16 years. His warm, nostalgic voice, transports you instantly into the quaint story.

The Duchess Theatre is small and intimate – making it the perfect setting for the tale of Ratty, Mole, Toad, Badger and the other creatures that live and play on the riverbank.

Directed and choreographed by Will Tuckett, the production is a ballet, but in its mildest form – ballet-lite as it were. It is perfect for children who want to make their first foray into the genre.

As the story progresses, the landscape is evoked by rolled-up carpets and swathes of fabric pulled from Narnia-like wardrobes. Flowing blue material becomes the river upon which Ratty rows; the carpet provides a warm home for hibernating Mole, and a wardrobe is the perfect hiding place for the weasels.

The set is used impeccably throughout. One minute, a wardrobe is just that, the next it becomes a caravan, or a large Windsor chair. Turned upside down, it provides the bars for Toad’s prison.

Clemmie Sveaas plays gentle Mole; Will Kemp is suave Ratty; Christopher Akrill is grumpy Badger, and Cris Penfold is lively Toad – they are all brilliant. Their animated expressions combined with fantastic costumes make the much-loved characters truly come to life.


For purist ballet fans, the form of this play may not be the usual fare, but you’ll be swept along by the charming story.

Although the show may be aimed at a younger audience, we’re all just children at heart, so why not go along and lose yourself by the riverbank.

Until 1 February at The Duchess Theatre, Catherine Street, London WC2: 0844-482 9672, www.nimaxtheatres.com