Wind in the Willows

Click here if you liked this article 5

https://shakespeareaustralia.com.au/productions/the-wind-in-the-willows---melbourne---2026

Date Reviewed: 03/01/2026

An enjoyable pantomime and outdoor theatre event filled with talented musicians and actors who filled the space with their beautiful costumes and marvelous singing and performing. Glenn Elston’s clever adaptation of Kenneth Grahame’s novel The Wind in the Willows was perfectly set up in the Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne. Nothing felt wasted or unnecessary. Most notably for me, a boat used by a character to swim across the pond and introduce themselves was upturned and became a platform on which characters performed. A simple but effective set that became carefully more elaborate as the play progressed and we found ourselves at Toad Hall.

The whole show had a warm, gentle, and kid-friendly vibe that gradually drew in even the most skeptical audience member.

The blend of performer made music and unique characterisation filled the stage very well. Having actors perform instruments and sing live, as well as maintaining strong characters, was a delight to see. No one actor or character dominated the action, which gave the whole show a quaint family reunion vibe that also drove the plot forward very nicely. I enjoyed the first act more, with oddly dressed characters simply appearing, sometimes by boat, just to say something funny or sing a small song rather than focus on plot.

My only contrary comment would be that some of the performers struggled to be heard over the occasionally chilly wind. If you are interested in attending this performance, I would definitely bring a hot drink, some chips and a coat. Everyone who performed did a fantastic job despite the cold breeze.

As my partner and I walked through the gardens to see the show, I was unsure how accessible the show would be for differently abled audience members. It is on a hill and on wet grass. However, the Australian Shakespeare Company states on its website that it can help any audience member make the most of their experience and encourages patrons to advise them when booking, taking into account individual requirements. Limiting for spontaneous ticket buyers, but reassuring to read.

For the first time in my reviewing history, I am proud to say I truly adored the performances of the Mole (Alyssa Mastromanno), the Badger (John Rochford), the Weasel (Julian Machin) and the Toad (Jake Crawford). Everyone did a delightful job but these individual performers really stood out to me.

The Wind in the Willows is one of those rare shows that meets your expectations and does not seek to reinvent the tropes and techniques it employs. It is a mischievous and charming little pantomime, heavy on audience interaction and humour.

Reviewed by Nic