When Mole grows tired of spring cleaning his underground home and ventures out to the riverside, he meets Rat, who tells him: "Beyond [our] Wild Wood is the Wide World, and that's something that doesn't matter, either to you or me."

"But," Mole replies, "it could be fun, the Wide World…"

After the year we've had, I think we, like Mole, deserve a break from the insides of our houses, and an adventure in a world that is not quite our own.

What better way to do this than by joining the Frodsham Players for their first in-person show of 2021: The Wind in the Willows?

Directed by Iain Bennett, the Players will be performing a version adapted from Kenneth Grahame's timeless novel by award-winning playwright, Mike Kenny.

The play will be staged on the lawn in front of Castle Park House, a setting that perfectly complements the gentle, pastoral feel of Grahame's classic story.

I was given a sneak peek of all that's in store for audiences while the Players were rehearsing in the tranquil setting of St Laurence Church, and was immediately swept up into the innocent world of the Wild Wood and its inhabitants.

The Players have thoughtfully captured Mole's unworldly eagerness, Rat's affable warmth, Toad's endearing fanaticism and Badger's gruff wisdom, lending energy and humour to this unlikely band of woodland chums.

Supporting the main cast will be a collection of hedgehogs, rabbits and otters, played brilliantly by local schoolchildren.

And joining them, a dynamic assortment of props, including a boat, a gypsy caravan, and Toad's infamous motor car!

With all this in prospect, The Wind in the Willows promises to be a lively and entertaining event for all the family to enjoy. Bring your own chair or rug, plus any snacks or drinks, and soak up an enchanting summer evening of Moly adventures and Toady escapades on Castle Park House lawn.

"We have all been so excited to be back rehearsing and bringing live theatre to Frodsham - please come and support us and join Ratty, Mole, Toad and Badger on an adventure," said director, Iain.

"We promise you a couple of hours of light-hearted entertainment and an escape from reality for a short while."

The Frodsham Players' version of [I]The Wind in the Willows will be performed at 7:30pm between Wednesday 7 July and Saturday 10 July. There will also be matinee performances on both Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 July at 2:30pm.

The play will be performed by two separate casts appearing on alternate days, meaning that even if someone has to self-isolate, the show will still go on!

To book your tickets, visit the Frodsham Players website.[.I]