REVIEW: THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS

Redlynch Players

Redlynch Village Hall, Lover

HAVING recently seen the pro version at the Mayflower (and liked it) I wondered how the amateur version would compare. The cast and crew did themselves proud, under the direction of Lloyd Perry. Toad (Mark Newman) was larger than life and every bit as bombastic as you would hope, while shy, myopic Mole (Sarah Newman) was in awe of everything. Ratty (Alison Silver) was a fusser and Badger (Ron Perry) was refined while the Wild wooders, headed up by chief Weasel (Mark Everett) were filled with menace and mischief. Each cast member was perfectly in tune with their animal’s characteristics, further enhanced by subtle costuming. The scenes were inter layered with song, proving that the cast can sing as well as act. The intimate venue allowed us to see every expression and hear each nuance, but the fantastic projections and silhouettes, flanked by some well-placed greenery, props and skilled lighting, expanded the stage to let us feel part of a much wider world.

Rebecca Case