Wind in The Willows at the Royal and Derngate Review
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Wind in The Willows
Royal & Derngate Theatre, Northampton
27 November 2013 – 5 January 2014
Reviewed by Michelle Llabani
Having never taken my children (aged 3 and 6) to the theatre, it was with slight trepidation I entered the stalls at the Royal & Derngate in Northampton to see the performance of Wind in the Willows. Would they follow the story, would they get bored, would they need the toilet? However, I am pleased to report that all my fears were completely unfounded. My children, my husband and I were enchanted from beginning to end.
The set was beautiful, and the use of shadows brought a magical element to the setting. The characters were engaging for both adults and children, and the story was simple enough for my 6 year old to follow. Highlights were the snow falling on the audience and bubbles which greeted us in the first scene.
The director spoke to the audience at the beginning of the show, explaining that their lead 'Toad' had had an accident and Gavin Spokes had stepped into the breach at the last moment, however if we hadn't been told, we would never had guessed. The cast were excellent and seemed to suit the roles perfectly. Interval conversations in our family revolved around who we liked best, with Mole piping Badger and Ratty to the post with 2 votes.
All in all, I would definitely recommend the show for families with young children, especially for those who are looking for an alternative to the traditional pantomime this Christmas. I can assure you as a result of Wind in the Willows I will definitely be visiting the theatre with my children again.
After a family conference we give the show 4.5 Stars out of 5
*Top tip:- When booking tickets go for rows A to G if you want to feel the full effect of the snow and bubbles. We were in row J and my 2 were disappointed not to be snowed on.
Rating: 4.5/5
Tickets cost from £9 – £20 plus £2.50 transaction fee.
For more information or to book tickets click here.
