There are a host of differing requirements for a family Christmas show but near the top of most lists would surely come the vital ingredient of “charm”. This is something director-choreographer Will Tuckett’s delightful dance-theatre piece, which originated at the Royal Opera House, has in superabundance. Not for nothing did it win the Best Entertainment and Family prize at the 2014 Olivier Awards.
Kenneth Grahame’s lovely Edwardian evocation of life among four furry friends on the river bank — as well as in the perilous Wild Wood — is perpetually cherishable in itself and Tuckett gloriously adds to it with a production of endless invention. He ingeniously conjures up Grahame’s world from the discarded contents of a dusty attic; we first encounter Sonya Cullingford’s nervy, loyal Mole hidden in a rolled-up carpet.
Alan Titchmarch makes a confident West End debut as the warmly reassuring and avuncular Narrator, the only verbal character. Around him dart, to the strains of Martin Ward’s era-sensitive score played lived by the CHROMA Ensemble, Martin Harvey’s dashing Ratty and Cris Penfold’s giddily enjoyable Toad, green of wig, checked of trouser and foolish of plan. A festive treat for Willows fans both young and old.
Until Jan 17 (020 7304 4000, nimaxtheatres.com)
Christmas shows in London 2014
