Editor:
I would like to share some feelings about the recent play done by Rivers’ Edge Theatre, Toad of Toad Hall.
This is an offshoot of Wind in the Willows and is a fantasy/comedy. Being a cellist, I was asked to play alongside my friend Lorraine to give the music some bass notes. I was hesitant at first, but after attending some early rehearsals, realized that it was a very worthwhile project.
This is not an easy play to put on – many scene changes, much dialogue – but this group did a wonderful job and I loved every moment of it.
Gary Smith, a city councillor and realtor, played the Toad and may I say, it was done with such flair and fun. He put himself into this role with every ounce of his energy and his costumes were so colourful, kudos to his tailor. Chris Moslin, a former councillor, played the Badger, Jennifer Burrows the Mole and Lee Anne Lawrence the Rat, all doing a splendid job in their respective roles.
Behind the scenes the work was incredible, many children had to be made up and dressed as woodland creatures; Gary had to be painted to look like a toad so I watched with reverence as all this took place nightly. There was much camaraderie and fun and I miss it now that it is over.
Mary Ann Westaway was the director and she excelled in that role.
Eleanor Martens did the producing and Mike Elliot was stage director. I have so little criticism of this production, this is community amateur theatre and to be able to pull this off is nothing short of a miracle.
They had been rehearsing since last November so I can imagine how fatigued they will all be now but happy I am sure. I was so delighted to be part of this wonderful production, kudos to all concerned, keep up the great work people!
To all the others who helped with this play, well done, you are too many to mention here but you know who you are!
Liz Martin, Grand Forks