Wind in the Willows

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www.shakespeareaustralia.com.au

Date Reviewed: 07/01/2026

The Australian Shakespeare Company through the adaptation of Glenn Elston OAM brings to life the much loved and whimsical story of Wind in the Willows also directed by the brilliant Marianne Bragge.

Join Ratty...Moley...Badger...Otter...Portly... and the lovable Toady as they’re riotous adventures in the iconic Sydney Botanical Gardens begins.

Whilst the play is held outdoors, with no stage and limited props, it makes excellent use of the garden setting, the pond and garden benches and a boat all add to the adventure, forcing you to use your imaginations.

Pack a picnic, bring the whole family, sit back and delight in being transported back to your childhood, in the beautiful garden setting. 

But keep a close guard on your carrots...with all those hungry rabbits around.

Although this timeless show is aimed at introducing this classic story first written 1908 by Kenneth Grahame, to a whole new generation... those young at heart won’t be able to stop themselves joining in and get caught up in the delightful mayhem as the guitar songs begin, led by the very charismatic ‘ Chief Rabbit Warren', and his side kick ‘Weasel'.

Waggle your ears...wiggle your nose is one of those songs you will be singing for days.

The show is interactive, the first part of the show is held in front of the pond, as we are introduced to nearly all of the character’s... The little ‘rabbits ‘ (The children)  are encouraged to sing, dance and participate, very much like a pantomime but oh so much more fun!

The make up and costumes are remarkable, each actor presents their character in a loveable memorable role.

There are plenty of laughs to be had for the adults, puns left, right and centre and also more simplified for the children to enjoy. Good clean fun all round.

The second half of the show is held at Toad Hall...which is a short walk away with the magical glistening harbour as a back drop. It’s there we meet Toady, or Mr Toad...The reckless and totally irresponsible Toady steals the show and quiet possibly your heart. He is quite the character which is rarely seen these day’s.

The show has been running for over 35 year’s in Melbourne and 20 year’s in Sydney...which clearly shows how popular this is, 

Moral of the story...It’s at Toad hall that the characters come to realise, that true friendship can overcome all obstacles. 

This charming work with it’s anthropomorphised character’s live on in this timeless English classic. Definitely a show you can see many times over and still find something new to enjoy.

Only on for a very short time, so 'hop' to it...and make the most of these hot balmy summer time evenings in Sydney.

Reviewed by Genna