Wind In The Willows by Paperback Theatre

Review by Rose.

“It was thought out to every last detail.”

This show was aimed at younger children, as it started with a song. The main plot was friendship and equality but at quite a basic level. Most of the actors used loud voices and the script was quite poetic, which makes it easy to see why it would appeal to younger children. Although, my father quite enjoyed the show, which proves that it can not only be enjoyed by younger children, but also by adults who would like to be in contact with their much younger selves again!

The shortening of the original storyline worked very well. It was thought out to every last detail, making the performance rich with feeling which flowed through each and every sentence spoken. I also noticed that some actors played different parts, which personally I did not like, as it confused me as to who was playing what.

My favourite character was the kind and underground-dwelling mole

Compared to other performances I have been to, the setup was very well done, as everything was hidden behind a sheet which served as a background as well as a wall to hide costumes and props from the crowd. My favourite character was the kind and underground-dwelling mole, as they would always help an animal in need, and seek out the good in all people – however annoying they may seem! All in all, I thought that the performance was more suitable for younger children than older children and adults.

You can learn more about Paperback Theatre and their work here: https://www.paperbacktheatre.com/

Want to read more Young Critic Reviews from 2022’s festival? Check them out here:

Emily’s review of Dyad Production’s A Room of One’s Own: https://lichfieldfestival.org/young-critics-review/young-critic-review-a-room-of-ones-own/

Iona’s review of Jaivant Patel Dance’s Arpan: https://lichfieldfestival.org/young-critics-review/young-critic-review-arpan/