Centrestage Productions Youth Theatre 
The Point, Eastleigh
David A Putley 
18 February 2026
I am surprised that this charming adaption of the classic tale is not performed more widely on the amateur circuit, if not professionally. The score is up to Styles and Drewe’s usual high standard with a book by the ever-reliable Justin Fellows. A variety of styles and lots of characters to be given a moment to shine. And shine they do in this deftly directed production by Mike Mullen. It whips along with pace and professionalism: subtle use of the dry ice to make the river under the arch and the putting together of the car were brilliantly done together with the boat on the river and well put together scenic backdrops creating the perfect world for Kenneth Grahame’s iconic characters.
As Toad, Will Vokes was truly bumptiousness personified but with just the right amount of warmth to show why people were prepared to go the extra mile for him. Vocally adept, coming into his own in the second half escaping jail in the most flourishing manner.
More than matching him was Sam Fitzsimmons as Mole. A beautifully rounded performance of heart and conscience with good diction accent too. His interaction with all around him was so considered and well thought out. His “home” song was a highlight amongst many. As was Josh Elway as Ratty. The pairing of these two characters is crucial, and it was clear they were having a good time on stage together. Ratty’s one liners and general stage presence were a great antidote to everyone else around him but also showing great empathy.
Badger is usually portrayed as rather aloof and gruff, but Sam Head not only brought immense gravitas as the role demands but also approachability and warmth. The Friend trio with the wonderful harmonies he, Ratty and Mole performed was pure perfection.
The singing throughout was so good. The hedgehog nightmare made me laugh out loud whilst also being sad and the choir of field mice were terrific. We also had air hostess swallows and Molly Swan as Mrs Otter coping so well with a typically teenage attitude child. As the gaoler’s wife, Paris Hall was suitably enamoured of Toad and interested so well in a difficult scene.
The choreography, by Summer Hughes, was quite phenomenal. The accuracy and ability to uniformly produce such sharp movement must have taken such hard work. It absolutely paid off. Leading the Wild Wood animals was Jack Fenner, who brought athleticism, energy, drive and vocal talent to the role. Alongside him was Cerys May, Flo Segal and Eve Perraton, who all brought understanding, talent, poise and strong character. Willow White brought us a tap-dancing horse, and movement throughout was disciplined from all ages.
Musical direction was under the excellent control of Rachael Thorpe and Ian Partridge, the latter conducting a very well drilled orchestra. Great sound set and costumes added so much to this classy show.
Above all, I guess what I am promoting is heart and this wonderful production has it at its centre and brilliance just flows from it. Highly, highly recommended as an antidote to both the rain and a world which seems to not savour the values this production promotes.
