Star of Taggart and River City, Colin McCredie will play Toad in the new adaptation of Kenneth Grahame’s much-loved tale, The Wind in the Willows, on the banks of the River Tummel by Pitlochry Festival Theatre.
Colin McCredie grew up in Perth and trained at the RSAMD. He is best known for playing D.C Fraser in over 75 episodes of Taggart. He is returning to Pitlochry in person after being part of the online Winter Ensemble Company.
Adapted for the stage by Mark Powell and performed in the spectacular setting of the banks of the River Tummel, The Wind in the Willows, starring Colin McCredie as Toad, runs from 2 July – 12 September. Tickets are on sale here.
You’re starring as Mr. Toad in Pitlochry Festival Theatre’s The Wind in the Willows, what can you tell us about this production?
It is an all new singing dancing open air version set & performed on banks of the River Tummel. It’s a fab new script by Mark Powell with a brilliant cast, original songs & stunning costumes. There will also be a few special surprises along the way.
What is it about Mark Powell’s adaptation of Kenneth Grahame’s classic that impressed you the most?
It is lovely fresh & new version of the story. The setting has been relocated to Pitlochry so an opportunity for lots of Scottish voices. The themes of friendship & togetherness couldn’t be more relevant after the lockdown year we’ve had.
Tell us more about where The Wind in the Willows will be performed?
The show will be performed in the open air on the lawn on front of the theatre. It will have the finest ever back drop; the River Tummel & the peaks of Ben Vrackie. There will be plenty of space on the lawn so that can feel safe & not have to worry about social distancing.
What challenges does a location like this present for you as an actor?
Even an outdoor show during the Scottish Cover may have its challenges. Luckily we will be mic-ed so hopefully, other than when the RAF Euroflighters screech down the loch, we will be heard perfectly!! We will have to monitor the wind & rain but we’re all used to it here.
Toad is such a well-known and beloved character, what are you hoping to bring to the role?
Toad is a great character to play. A lovable rogue who messes up and finds redemption. There’s loads of comedy in the part but plenty of drama too. I’ve based him on many of the buffoons we’ve got to know over lockdown!
How does it feel to be returning to Pitlochry in person, after being part of their online season?
It is an absolute to delight to be out of the house and back in Pitlochry. It was a godsend to able to produce online content over the past year. To be able to work and keep being creative was brilliant but it can’t complete with the joy of being back in the rehearsal room. You can’t beat doing it for “real” and to be able to spark of each other. It’s also fantastic to be able to gossip again!!
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking The Wind in the Willows, particularly if this is their first visit to a performance post-lockdown?
Please book tickets & come! Pitlochry Festival Theatre is doing all it can to employ creatives and put shows on but we need the audience to come. As it’s open air everything will be fully covid safe. The theatre is offering a full 24-hour cancellation in case anyone had covid issues or the weather is bad. Also, to keep everyone safe don’t forget your folding chair, umbrella & blanket. And as it’s Scotland remember the Skin So Soft for the midges!!
The Wind in the Willows, starring Colin McCredie is at Pitlochry Festival Theatre from the 2 July – 12 September. To book visit Pitlochry Festival Theatre’s website
