A NEW stage production of a classic story loved by children and adults alike is coming to Kingsley in January.

Award-winning drama group, Kingsley Players, will be giving five performances of Kenneth Graham’s beloved tale, The Wind in the Willows, which has been delighting readers since it was first published in 1908.

Ratty, Mole, Badger and Toad will be on stage at Kingsley Theatre in a new musical version of the story, which first premiered at the London Palladium in 2017.

Julian Fellowes, creator of Downton Abbey, is behind this latest adaptation, which features the songs Messing About on a Boat, The Wild Wooders, Spring and Mr Toad’s Speed is of the Essence.

Kingsley Players director, Lynn Pegler, said: “We have a fantastic cast who are bringing this wonderful tale to life.

“Although the original was based around the river Thames, the story could easily have been set in Cheshire.

Northwich Guardian: Kate Burge as Mole (Kingsley Players)Kate Burge as Mole (Kingsley Players) (Image: Kingsley Players)

"The county’s beautiful scenery has been my inspiration for our version, and audiences may spot some familiar scenes.

“Close your eyes and you can just imagine strolling along the river Weaver and spotting Ratty and Mole’s rowing boat in the reeds, or chancing upon Badger’s burrow, or the glinting eyes of stoats and weasels in Delamere Forest.

“Do come and see if the arrogant, over-the-top Mr Toad really can mend his ways!”

Chairman of Kingsley Players, Jo Oultram, said: “This show brings together performers and production teams of all ages in one show, which will provide fun and entertainment to an audience of all ages as well.

“As usual, preparations began months ago with cunning plans to build the stage to allow movement of boats, cars, and a large cast.

“The community centre will be transformed into a full-scale proscenium arch stage with curtains and raised tiered seating.”

Northwich Guardian: David Lee as Mr Toad (Kingsley Players)David Lee as Mr Toad (Kingsley Players) (Image: Kingsley Players)

The show will be on stage at Kingsley Theatre, in Kingsley Community Centre, from Wednesday, January 25, to Saturday, January 28, at 7.30pm daily.

There will be an additional matinee performance on the Saturday at 2.30pm.

Tickets cost £10, with £7 tickets available for students and children. These can be booked online at kingsleyplayers.co.uk or by ringing the box office on 07724 892154.