The Wind In The Wilton’s At Wilton’s Music Hall Review

Reviewed by Dee Ryz

The tale of The Wind in the Willows is synonymous with our childhoods. Whether it was the story that was read to us as we fell asleep, or the TV or film adaptations we enjoyed on a rainy Sunday afternoon, it’s a story that has delighted generations. This Christmas, award-winning children’s author Piers Torday has adapted this well-loved novel into a fun, festive filled show – The Wind in the Wilton’s.

This isn’t the first novel adaptation for Torday at Wilton’s – he had previously written A Box of Delights, Christmas Carol and The Child in the Snow – all of which went down a treat, so I had high expectations for Wind in the Wilton’s. Hat’s off to Torday, and the production, as it really was truly delightful!

While the original was set by the Thames near Oxford, this updated story starts in central, contemporary London (Hyde Park to be precise), where we meet Mole (Corey Montague Sholay), who’s house is about to be destroyed by the weasels. He chances upon Ratty (Rosie Wyatt), and she accompanies him through the seasons and along the Thames meeting friends, like Badger (Melody Brown), Duck (Paula Jones) and Otter (Chris Nayak) en route to meet Toad (Darrel Brooks) of Toad Hall, in hopes that he will help.

This more modern take on the classic tale covered climate and sustainability issues without ‘greenwashing’ or trivialising the concerns we face as a society, while also somehow managing to keep it light, fun and entertaining, so that it could reach and educate all generations. Wonderful! I should also point out, this was all done without losing the essence of the original story – having to save Toad Hall from the weasels – which is most definitely down to the marvellous writing!

The music, choreography and songs were delightful, and brought the whole tale to life. The costumes were true to the original albeit, modernised – I particularly enjoyed Toad’s fried egg jumper and green beret. The set design was also incredible. As I mentioned above, as we travelled along the river and seasons, the set design changed seamlessly, and transported us to the various locations with ease.

The running time is approximately 2 hours including interval, so is perfect if you have little ones who get a bit distracted after a while meaning the show will be a hit with all ages.

On from 24th November to 31st December, at 7.30p, on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturdays, and Saturday matinees at 2.30pm, with tickets priced from £13 – £36.50 / £10.50 – £32.50 concessions, it’s a Christmas show I’d highly recommend, and is most definitely fun for the whole family.

Rating: 4/5 stars

For more information or to book tickets please visit The Wind in the Willows Wilton’s by award winning author Piers Torday – Wilton’s (wiltons.org.uk).

Wilton’s Music Hall is situated in Shadwell, East London, so is easily accessed by public transport (DLR and overground stations are within easy walking distance, and is situated on a number of bus routes). The venue itself is truly remarkable. It opened in 1859 as a music venue, and fell into disrepair. A long restoration project was undertaken, and completed in 2016, meaning that while beautiful original features remain, it’s been brought up to present date.