Whistle Down The Wind

Whistle Down The Wind is one of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s lesser know works but, none the less, it abounds with memorable music one expects from this icon of musical theatre.

Based on a book by Mary Hayley Bell and film directed by Richard Attenborough, ALW collaborated with Patricia Knopp and Aussie Director Gale Edwards in adapting the story to the stage, changing the location from the UK to the US state of Louisiana along the way.

Swallow, a 15 year old girl (played brilliantly by Courtney Monsma) finds an unconscious man hiding out in the farm barn (convincingly brought to life by the talented Casey Fegan). He awakes with a start and when asked his name he blurts out “Jesus Christ!”

Having been brought up in a God-fearing household Swallow believes that the Messiah has returned and along with her two younger sisters is sworn to secrecy by The Man (who is really an escaped convict on the run from the Authorities. Unable to keep a secret the girls slowly inform the children from the town of the mystery man and they too are sworn to keep his location quiet.

Meanwhile, the Townsfolk are “up-in-arms” about the prospect of a fugitive on the run in area and eventually track the man down. Despite the protests of the children the gun-toting locals corner the man who, in turn, sets fire to the barn and perishes in the flames.

The supporting principal line up included seasoned performers Jim Price, Tammy Dundon, Leigh Harrison and the youthful Ashley Walsh, Rochelle De Snoo, Lincoln Jameson and Jackson Brash as an Elvis Presley ‘look alike”.

Scenery and costumes were basic with the changes of scene handled by the younger members of the cast.

All 15 children in this production were strong and believable and were supported by a local choral group – The Voice Weavers all under the Musical Direction of Wendy Fahey.

Tammy Dundon’s choreography was simple yet effective.

This was Andy’s first venture into directing and I hope it won’t be his last.

Roger McKenzie