THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS to Make World Premiere at Shaw Festival
Fiona Sauder adapts and directs the family show at the Jackie Maxwell Studio Theatre in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
The Wind in the Willows, a new adaptation based on the classic A.A. Milne play Toad of Toad Hall, makes its world premiere this season at the Shaw Festival. Adapted and directed by Fiona Sauder, this family-friendly show begins previews at the Jackie Maxwell Studio Theatre starting May 22.
Serial enthusiast Mr. Toad (Lawrence Libor) has discovered the thrill of fast motorcars, to the despair of his friends Mole (Gabriella Sundar Singh) and Rat (Sharry Flett). Soon his reckless obsession lands him behind bars. In his absence, rivals Chief Stoat (Sara Farb) and Chief Weasel (Matt Alfano) seize Toad Hall, his ancestral home. Now, Toad must break out of prison, win back Mole, Rat and Badger's (Shawn Wright) trust, then embark on a daring mission to reclaim his beloved home from its nefarious new occupants.
This all ages show also features the talents of Qasim Khan, Jaden Kim, Graeme Kitagawa, Allison McCaughey, Taurian Teelucksingh and Jacqueline Thair.
The Wind in the Willows has set and prop design by Judith Bowden, costume design by Laura Delchiaro, lighting design by Kevin Lamotte and original music and sound design by Jeffrey Newberry. The production team includes stage manager Lani Martel and assistant stage managers Jamie Anderson* and Kathryn Urbanek.
The Wind in the Willows will be at the centre of the Shaw Festival's popular 40-minute pre-show workshop for children and the young-at-heart. During this inventive, fun and interactive outdoor event, participants will visit several themed stations on the road to Toad Hall – just like the incorrigible Mr. Toad. The activities begin one hour prior to all shows of The Wind in the Willows on the Shaw Festival's grounds (10 Queen's Parade). Admission: $10 with a ticket to the day's performance.
On stage at the Jackie Maxwell Studio Theatre (10 Queen's Parade) from May 22 to September 27 (available for review beginning June 21), The Wind in the Willows is recommended for audience members 6+. Running time is approximately 2 hours, including one 20-minute intermission.
Cast
Matt Alfano as Chief Weasel/Ensemble, Sara Farb as Chief Stoat/Ensemble, Sharry Flett as Rat/Ensemble, Qasim Khan as Judge/Ensemble, Jaden Kim as Marigold/Phoebe/Ensemble, Graeme Kitagawa as Usher/Ensemble, Lawrence Libor as Toad/Ensemble, Allison McCaughey as Nurse/Washerwoman/Ensemble, Gabriella Sundar Singh as Mole/Ensemble, Taurian Teelucksingh as Alfred/Ensemble, Jacqueline Thair as Chief Ferret/Ensemble, and Shawn Wright as Badger/Ensemble.
Creative & Production Team
Fiona Sauder serves as director, with Judith Bowden as set and props designer, Laura Delchiaro as Costume Designer, Kevin Lamotte as lighting designer, and Jack Davidson (née Rennie) as fight and movement director.
The stage management team includes Lani Martel as stage manager, Kathryn Urbanek and Jamie Anderson as assistant stage managers, Lisa Russell as production stage manager, and Leigh McClymont as associate production stage manager.
In addition to its productions, the Shaw Festival will present more than 5,000 Beyond the Stage events, classes, and activities throughout the season. Programming includes Positive Aging events, Arts Education programs for children and youth, Backstage Tours, Artist Conversations, Coffee Concerts, Speakeasies, What's In Your Songbook, Gospel Choir, Perfect Pairings Concerts, and Pop-Up Patios.
More information is available at Shaw Festival Beyond the Stage.
Two-show Toronto-Niagara Shaw Express days are now available for the 2026 season.
Ride to Niagara-on-the-Lake in time for the matinee and return home after the evening
performance. Please see the season calendar for the full Shaw Express schedule. Luxury buses are standard size wheelchair accessible, offer free Wi-Fi and have an on-board host. The fare is $39 return per person. Ticket to a 2026 performance is required, and advance arrangements must be made with the Box Office. Schedule is subject to change. Please confirm dates and times with the Shaw Festival Box Office. For more information – or to purchase tickets or reserve a seat on the Toronto-Niagara Shaw Express – contact the Shaw Festival Box Office at 1-800-511-SHAW or visit shawfest.com.
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