BP News

After “Wind in the Willows” – If it has wheels then...

I am sure there are many ways to finish this sentence, but in my case the words, then let Paula pull it springs to mind. Ever since my bed pushing and pulling efforts in Cabaret way back in May 2003, Carole Humphreys has been threatening to find a play for the Juniors which required a mobile bed. She still hasn’t made it! In 2004, she did have a revolving house (for Tom Sawyer). This year, she managed to go one better, with three revolving houses (OK so I kept pushing them the wrong way) and better still a boat on wheels.

The play, in case you missed it (and shame on you) was Wind in the Willows. The boat made three appearances, once disguised as a barge, and I am pleased to say that it behaved itself much better than the errant bed. It even managed a ripple of applause one night. I was aided and abetted in my pulling efforts by a member of the cast, Simon Lucas. Chosen for his strength, I believe. Initially he took his duties very seriously, and during the dress rehearsal there was a danger that it could have been the first wheeled boat in orbit, judging by the speed at which he was determined the boat (with occupants) should leave the stage. Thankfully, I was able to curb his enthusiasm and more sedate exits was witnessed during the actual performances.

Thanks to all of the great cast of this play (and special personal thanks to Simon) and of course to Carole and Jayne Mason for their amazing efforts and dedication in pulling off this production. Not forgetting also Joy Carroll and Janet Newton for their contributions. I am just wondering what Carole is cooking up for me next year!

Also my sincere thanks to Wendy Kirwan for yet another imaginative and delightful set, to Keith Crook and his loyal team of set builders, and also finally to Chris Lane and helpers (in particular John) for one of the most complicated lighting sets we have had for the Juniors. We couldn’t have done it without any of you.