Sublime Adaptation of a Beloved Classic Wows at Shakespeare North: A Five-Star Triumph of Friendship and Bravery

Rating : * * * * *

A sublime evening of entertainment!

This two hour show (with an interval of 20 mins) is wholesome, thought provoking and utterly entertaining.

Toby Hulse and Director,Julia Samuels have taken this adorable childrens’ classic and adapted it for the stage.  For anyone unfamiliar with Kenneth Grahame’s tale of Ratty, Mole Badger and Toad, the themes of love, bravery and friendship not only transcend into their antics however also demonstrate a clear message to readers and theatre goers that we should stand up for our friends and support them no matter what, especially at times when we disagree with their decisions.

The superb acting of all the cast members was ‘completely off the scale’ to the point that each of their individual performances truly had you believing they were the actual animals they were portraying.  In particular, the rat and stoat-like mannerisms of Bryony Maguire had you both loathing and loving the character she depicted.  Katie Erich (Mole) delivered such a gentle, unassuming and likeable mole that she made you want to be as honest, kind and thoughtful as her character.  Kesziah Joseph’s  (Ratty) facial expressions and frustratedly sarcastic tone during her dialogue with Dean Boodaghians Nolan (Toad) was hilariously delightful.  Her acting ability had the audience in raptures as we became completely immersed in her narrative.  

This is a first class show, utterly entertaining and absolutely worthy of its five star rating.