Join in the Holiday Revelries with “The Wind in the Willows”

at The Western Stage

The Western Stage (TWS) concludes its 2005 season with Kenneth Grahame’s classic “The Wind in the Willows”, a perfect holiday show for the entire family. Join Grahame’s beloved characters Badger, Rat, Mole, and, of course, Toad as they learn the value of friendship in this sparkling play with music. “Wind in the Willows” plays on the Mainstage, Hartnell College Performing Arts Center, December 2 - 17. Performances are Fri and Sat at 8pm and Sun at 2pm. Tickets are $25 General Admission, $17 Seniors/Juniors/Military and are available through the box office at 375-2111 or online at westernstage.org (87 Word PSA).

Kenneth Grahame’s novel “The Wind in the Willows” springs off the page to the stage in this delightfully spirited play with music. When Mole, tired of his underground home, meets Rat, he is taken on a whirlwind tour of the great wide world above. He meets the eccentric motorcar-happy Mr. Toad, Mr. Badger, and the nefarious Weasels who take over Mr. Toad’s home. Together these characters learn that there is nothing to fear when you have friends near. This production promises to be the perfect holiday gift for the entire family.

Kenneth Grahame (1859-1932) was one of the leading writers of children’s literature of his time. “Wind in the Willows”, his most successful novel, was written for his son Alistair, a partially blind child whose excessive behavior inspired the character of Mr. Toad. (For more on Grahame and the writing of “Wind in the Willows, see supplemental article.)

“Wind in the Willows” is directed by Anne Marie Hunter, whose past TWS credits include “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” and “Into the Woods Jr.” (2004). She is being assisted by production manager Jeff McGrath, whose directing credits include “The Cripple of Inishmaan” (2004) and “Prelude to a Kiss” (2003). Other technical credits TBA.

Dan Tarker Literary Associate