THE highly-aniticipated major new musical theatre adaptation of The Wind in the Willows, created by Julian Fellowes, George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, will open at the Theatre Royal Plymouth from October 8, prior to opening in London’s West End.

Based on Kenneth Grahame’s treasured novel, which has captivated generations of readers for over a century, The Wind in the Willows has been adapted for the stage with a book by Oscar-winning screenwriter and Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes and Olivier Award-winning composer and lyricist team George Stiles and Anthony Drewe.

The Wind in the Willows marks the first time the three have worked together since their hugely successful collaboration on the international hit musical Mary Poppins, which ran for three years in the West End and six years on Broadway.

Developed and produced by Jamie Hendry Productions and presented in association with Theatre Royal Plymouth, The Wind in the Willows is directed by Rachel Kavanaugh with design by Peter McKintosh and lighting design by Howard Harrison.

Kenneth Grahame’s wild tale about the thrill-seeking, loveable menace Mr Toad comes to life in a brand new stage musical. Ratty, Badger and Mole join the exuberant Toad and embark on a series of adventures and misadventures caused by his insatiable need for speed.

Imprisoned for theft and with his existence under threat from the inhabitants of the Wild Wood, Toad must attempt a daring escape to defend Toad Hall. Featuring spectacular stagecraft and a company of over 50, this sparkling new musical with a glorious original score brings this treasured British classic to life in what is set to be 2016’s wildest theatrical adventure.

Jamie Hendry, producer, said: ‘I am delighted that we will be opening The Wind in the Willows in two of the country’s most prestigious venues prior to the West End. It has been a joy working with such a distinguished team of writers and creatives to develop that rare thing — a new British musical. I can’t wait to get the show on the road and invite audiences to share in our journey!’

Julian Fellowes, writer, said: ‘I could not be more pleased to have been working on this new production of The Wind in the Willows, which has been a favourite of mine literally all my life. It has been a real privilege to be part of the team re-imagining it for the musical stage. As an added bonus, I’ve really enjoyed being back in the Stiles/Drewe/Fellowes team with our last production of Mary Poppins being a high point for all of us.

‘Naturally, I have similar hopes for The Wind in the Willows and I shall be on the edge of my seat when we open at Plymouth, a marvellous theatre and the perfect launch pad for us to begin. I do believe audiences everywhere will love the adventures of Toad, Ratty, Mole, Badger and their friends on stage as much as they have always loved the book. I certainly hope so anyway.’

Adrian Vinkin, chief executive of Theatre Royal Plymouth, said: ‘We feel privileged that the Theatre Royal Plymouth will stage the world premiere of The Wind in the Willows. It will be great to be working again with George, Anthony and Julian — the show simply couldn’t have a better pedigree than that.’

For tickets visit www.theatreroyal.com or for more information about the show, visit www.windinthewillowsthemusical.com