Reviewed by Wendy Mildren
January 2010
A musical version of Wind in the Willows was performed with great energy to an enthralled audience of predominately young children, Mothers, Grandparents and Uncles and Aunties of the performers.
OPUS have mounted this performance on an extremely minimalistic stage, using cut out props and a backlit screen to portray scenes. The cast of millions performed their various parts with great verve and vigour. The chorus consisted of extremely young first-timers and some slightly more experienced teens. One of the little girls won a heart when she first entered the stage and spotted her mother and waved enthusiastically to her.
Ashleigh McFadden played ‘Toad’ with unflagging energy. Jesse Moore as ‘Mole’, Amy Barrett as ‘Ratty’ and Alice Edgley as ‘Badger’ were charming. Edgley was particularly good as she projected great stage presence and command. Patrick Edgley in multiple roles and Sophie Warner as ‘Chief Weasel’ were both good. Jean Milward as ‘the narrator’ played her part well and concisely.
The cast sang their songs to recorded music, which worked quite well. Diction was a problem with most of the minor roles and some of the songs, however with more experience this will be overcome.
It is great to see the true meaning of ‘community theatre’ by Opus giving young and inexperienced children a chance to take part in a large production. Well done Opus.
