Synopsis In a twist of fate the bright-eyed and youthful Swallow discovers a mysterious man hiding in her family’s barn. When she asks for his identity the first words he utters are ‘Jesus Christ’...and it’s as though her prayers have been answered. While the rest of the townspeople are searching for a fugitive escaped from jail, Swallow gathers the town’s children who make a pact to protect their new found saviour from the cruelties of the outside world. An extraordinary and uplifting tale, Whistle Down the Wind is based on the beloved sixties film starring Hayley Mills and Alan Bates, and features numerous multi-award-winning songs, including Boyzone’s international smash hit No Matter What (which topped the UK charts for 6 weeks).
The musical Whistle Down The Wind is different to the original story written by Mary Hayley Bell (her daughter Hayley Mills having starred opposite Alan Bates in the film version) with the action relocated to the Louisiana bible belt of the 1950s. Furthermore Bill Kenwright has made significant changes to the original Andrew Lloyd Webber production for the touring version.
The first tour was in 2001 and this production is again directed by Kenwright and stars Jonathan Ansell as "the Man" who is quite a revelation in the role, as he leaves his days a part of the group G4, well and truly behind him.
The story revolves around a dangerous escaped convict (Ansell) who is discovered by a young girl called Swallow (Carly Bawden) hiding in her fathers’ barn. She firmly believes the convict is Jesus and allows the other local children to visit him, who all firmly believe Jesus has returned. Meanwhile in the town the hunt goes on for the convict.
There are several sub plots to keep the action moving along at a steady pace but the relationship between the girl and the man is central to everything.
With the musical numbers ranging from the rock song Tire Tracks (lyricist Jim Steinman) to the number one smash hit "No Matter What", all tastes are catered for. The designs by Paul Farnsworth are very effective, especially during the fire scene and the final duet between Swallow and The Man.
Having seen the original West End version several times, as well as the original tour, this production once again brings the story to life and deserves to play to packed houses across the Country. But it has to be said Ansell is certainly the star and shows he is a worthy leading man in musical theatre.
Absolutely brilliant - best musical I have seen in a long time. Lead vocals were superb - Clare
08 Jul 10
Absolutely brilliant version of the show, acting, singing, production all first class. Jonathan is certainly a big star in the making, The new Michael Ball perhaps? - Kay
04 Jun 10
Not the best show,needed better lead male with stronger voice (not just me as heard a few people on way out saying boring voice and lost interest during his songs - not a good sign! ).
Saying that lead female and children were very good..saved the show! - Susan
04 Jun 10
I would definitely recommend this show! Saw it on Monday and I was mesmerised by it. Jonathan is fantastic as The Man and the kids are amazing! Well done to all the cast. A wonderful evenings entertainment - worthy of the Westend! - Tracy
04 Jun 10
My 6 year old daughter is one of the local children appearing and they have worked so hard on this since February. It is lovely to hear such fab reviews. - Janey
03 Jun 10
What an amazing show, the cast were fab and the kids adorable, they all worked so so hard. Sang all night. - Jane
02 Jun 10
Totally brilliant show!The whole cast are amazing and the story line is very moving with some great musical numbers.
Definatley go and see it, you will love it! - poppy
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