In Person With the Willows on the Water

Two River Theater's upcoming children's holiday season play A Wind in the Willows Christmas shares a special connection with water. The play, the product of the company's in-house talent, features songs such as "Messing Around in Boats," and "As the River Flows."

In an effort to promote the play, which runs from Dec. 8 to Dec. 30, Two River Theater teamed up with the Navesink Maritime Heritage Association for a special Saturday event called Willows on the Water. Those who were the first to purchase tickets to the show ahead of time were given the opportunity to hop into canoes and push off from Maple Cove in Red Bank for a water tour of the Navesink's coastline.

Cassie Calasetti, the associate director of marketing for Two River Theater, organized the event at Maple Cove.

"There's a great scene in the play where the characters go down the river with their friends," she said. "We thought this was a perfect way to promote Willows, so we offered it to those who purchased tickets ahead of time."

A Wind in the Willows Christmas is based on the children's classic story told through song. A new version of the story, with music by Mike Reid and lyrics by Sarah Schlesinger, Willows invites the audience to join Mole, the Water Rate, Dr. Badger, and Mr. Toad on their adventures.

Visit the Two River Theater's website for more info.