It has been confirmed that the new musical production of The Wind in the Willows, based on the classic book by Kenneth Grahame will be opening at the Theatre Royal Plymouth from the 8th October 2016, followed by a run at the Lowry in Salford from the 26th October before opening in the West End.
Created by Julian Fellowes (Downtown Abbey) and composer and lyricist team George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, this production of The Wind in the Willows marks the first time that all three have worked together since their successful collaboration on the international hit musical Mary Poppins, which ran for three years in the West End and six years on Broadway.
The show is being developed and produced by Jamie Hendry Productions, presented in association with the Theatre Royal Plymouth. It is directed by Rachel Kavanaugh and will feature designs by Peter McKintosh and lighting by Howard Harrison.
Kenneth Grahame’s tale of the wild and excitable Mr Toad has enchanted readers for over a century and is now being brought to life once more in this brand new stage production.
Join Ratty,Badger and Mole as they embark on a series of adventures thanks to Mr Toad’s need to race around in his motorcar! When he is imprisoned for theft and his existence threatened thanks to the inhabitants of the Wild Wood, Mr Toad must attempt a daring escape to defend his home: Toad Hall.
Producer Jamie Hendry said: “ I am delighted that we will be opening The Wind in the Willows in two of the country’s most prestigious venues prior to the West End. It has been a joy working with such a distinguished team of writers and creatives to develop that rare thing – a new British musical. I can’t wait to get the show on the road and invite audiences to share in our journey next year!”
Julian Fellowes commented: “I could not be more pleased to have been working on this new production of The Wind in the Willows, which has been a favourite of mine literally all my life. It has been a real privilege to be part of the team re-imagining it for the musical stage. As an added bonus, I’ve really enjoyed being back in the Stiles/Drewe/Fellowes team with our last production of Mary Poppins being a high point for all of us.”
For more information on this brand new production of The Wind in the Willows visit: http://windinthewillowsthemusical.com/?gclid=CKDrwaCPqcgCFSWw2wodRF0JGQ .