Christmas comes but once a year, but at Rosebud Theatre, they have the knack of opening hearts to the spirit of Christmas before the first snow.
A Wind in the Willows Christmas In Rosebud opened on November 6 at the Opera House. Taking the iconic characters Badger, Ratty Mole and Mr. Toad, they spin three fables in word and music, re-imagined by David Grant and John Rutter, that are raucous fun for all ages.
First we become reacquainted with the larger than life Mr. Toad (David Snider) whose driving record and impulse control has still not improved since last time most met him. For a story built in the imagination of generations of children and adults, Rosebud does not miss the mark.
Mr. Toad makes it back to Toad Hall, but the party and the show go on as they tell the story of The Reluctant Dragon (Snider), who forges a deal with St. George (Joel Stephanson) to stage a fight to save his own skin.
And then we meet poor Brother Heinrich (Stephanson) who is charged with writing a new carol in time for Christmas to impress the archbishop, while at the same time consoling his melancholy side-kick Sigismund, a donkey banished from the choir. These are affairs of the heart that only divine intervention could solve.
Rosebud Theatre has simply perfected Christmas, using its strengths of stage, acting and music to deliver childish fun, a bit of nostalgia to enjoy the drive home while making a Christmas list in your head.
As Rosebud Theatre’s managing director asserts, “Come and experience one of the best winter wonderlands in Alberta. Come as you are - but don’t expect to leave that way.”
A Wind in the Willows Christmas runs until December 19.
