The Wind in the Willows,
by Kenneth Grahame, a Scottish novelist from Edinburgh, written in 1908 explores themes of anthropomorphic animals,
Mole, Rat, Toad, and Badger and all of their woodland friends.
The story of adventures and misadventures.
Toad goes through a number of fads including his obsessions with carriages, motorboats and motor cars, which always ends up getting him into trouble.
He steals a car, gets arrested, and goes to jail, then escapes!
While imprisoned Toad’s home, known as Toad Hall,
is taken over by the evil animals from the Wild Woods.
The story goes on to tell how his best friends come to his aid to reclaim Toad Hall, after his daring escape from jail.
Thus, Toad gains the respect of all the animals and his best friends, Mole, Rat, and Badger, by surprisingly, turning over a new leaf, which deepens the bonds of friendship.
This light-hearted Venice Little Theatre production of The Wind in the Willows
was an absolute joy to experience. From its unique blend of actors of all ages and experiences,
singing delightful tunes whilst telling its tale of friendship.I loved so many aspects,
from the striking stage sets and lighting as well as the colorful costumes, down to the cute hedgehogs.
There was a delightful array of tunes sung by beautiful voices.
Even the darker characters of the Wild Wood, the Weasels, Stoats and Ferrets, made me smile.
The overall interaction between all of the characters,
combined with the whimsical musical score and beautiful sets
will be a delight to all ages,
as it was to me,while we think about our own lives and just how important, true friendship can be.
Simply charming!
Val Walters
For Our Town