The new British musical based on Kenneth Grahame’s beloved story is being brought to the West End in a new production featuring a book by Julian Fellowes with music and lyrics by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe.
Having had its world premiere last year, this brand new musical will open for previews at the London Palladium from the 17th June, officially opening on the 29th June.
In today’s launch, Julian Fellowes and producer Jamie Hendry introduced members of the cast and the creative team behind this new musical production, including director Rachel Kavanaugh and designer Peter McKintosh.
Guests were also treated to performances by the cast from the production, including the edgy ‘The Wild Wooders’ performed by Neil McDermott and ‘The Amazing Mr Toad’ performed by Rufus Hound and cast – showcasing the fun and spirited nature of the musical.
With music and lyrics by George stiles and Anthony Drewe, this new musical adaptation of Kenneth Grahame’s classic story will feature choreography by Aletta Collins, lighting by Howard Harrison, sound by Gareth Owen and wig and make up by Linda McKnight.
The cast will include comedian and presenter Rufus Hound as Mr Toad and Neil McDermott as Chief Weasel. Meanwhile, the confirmed company also includes: Jenna Boyd Abigail Brodie, Jorell Coiffic-Kamall, Nicole Deon, James Gant, Evan James, Michael Larcombe, Bethany Linsdell, Ryan Pidgen, Adam Vaughan and Georgie Westall. Further casting is yet to be announced.
Rufus Hound has most recently been seen on stage in Don Quixote (Royal Shakespeare Company) The Wars of the Roses (Rose Theatre) and as Freddy in the West End production of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels.
Meanwhile, Neil McDermott is best known to television audiences for portraying Ryan Malloy in Eastenders. His stage credits include Lord Farquaad in Shrek the musical and Jean Michel in La Cage Aux Folles (Menier Chocolate Factory).
Join Ratty, Badger, Mole and the impulsive Toad as they embark on a series of riotous adventures spiralling from Toad’s insatiable need for speed!
The Wind in the Willows will open for previews at the London Palladium on the 17th June and is booking until the 9th September. To book tickets visit: Ticketmaster.co.uk, Discount Theatre.com, Theatre Tickets Direct.co.uk, Love Theatre.com, UK Tickets.co.uk and Theatre People.com.
Thanks to the wonderful Theatre Bloggers for helping organise for Love London Love Culture to attend!