Concept Players are back! Following their successful performances last year, they are kicking off the year with a charming classic of Wind in the Willows and I was lucky enough to be invited to come and review their opening performance at the Paget Rooms.

I didn’t know much about this show going in, but having loved the story growing up I was excited to see how they were going to bring this story to life on stage. 

This whimsical show was so much fun to watch. With high energy performances throughout and each member of the cast threw themselves into this performance, leading to create something truly special. It’s a difficult balance to strike when creating a show that can be enjoyed by all ages, but by leaning into the nostalgia of this beloved tale while also making this show their own made this a delightful performance for all. 

A special nod has to go to an audience favourite, Daniel Parker as Mole. His charming and often funny portrayal of the character captured our hearts. And his performance of ‘A Place To Come Back To’ was truly heart-warming. A great talent. Along with his quick-tempered but loyal friend Ratty, portrayed by Joshua Neal, who had the audience laughing from start to finish, together they both really embodied these infamous characters and while also adding a new depth to them. And another special mention has to go to Nick Pratt as Badger, aside from his costume being one of my personal favourites, his portrayal of the character was incredible, and his voice stunned the audience in his performance of ‘A Friend Is Still A Friend’.

The rest of the cast, Matthew Lee as Toad, James Osborne as Chief Weasel, Helen Mussell as Mrs Otter, Kate Chadwick as Portia, Rhiannon Rose-Goodsir, Richard Thomas, Ruby Purnell, Gabriel Jenkins, Shane Rose-Goodsir, Ingrid Watson, Kevin Morgan, Zoë Philpott, Helen Rose, Chris Dimbleby, Kate Sunderland, James Persons, Emma Pead, Kate Smith, Iona D’Souza and Harriet Maxwell, all gave us a high-energy performance and helped bring this world to life on stage.

Director and Choreographer Richard Thomas, along with the rest of the cast have created a show that is fun for all the family and is a must-see for anyone looking for a night of upbeat performances, a surprisingly beautiful score and friendly adventure. Wind in the Willows will be at the Paget Rooms until 13th April and tickets are selling out fast, so get yours now!

And make sure to check out the official Concept Players website, Facebook and Instagram.