When we finally meet in person, Derek McGrath is as witty and thoughtful as he sounds over the telephone.
“Next time I get my photo taken, I’d prefer it not be so close to Christmas,” he says, grinning and pointing to his chin.
“I’m usually a little slimmer.”
Best known as an award-winning actor who has enjoyed a distinguished career in theatre, television and film, McGrath knows all too well the ups and downs of life in the arts and entertainment industry.
“I get up every day with the knowledge that if I don’t make it happen, it won’t,” he says, with a twinkle he has become famous for.
McGrath’s extensive body of work includes You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, Godspell, The House of Blue Leaves, The Second City, Aladdin, and Armageddon Out Of Here (for which he received a Dramalogue award for acting).
Probably best known to television audiences as the character “Andy Andy” Schroeder on Cheers, he also gained notoriety for his work Dallas, Who’s The Boss, Nine To Five, Star Trek: Voyageur, Walker Texas Ranger, Doc and many more.
McGrath has delighted audiences as Reverend Magee on the CBC sitcom Little Mosque on the Prairie, and as the corrupt megalomaniacal politician Frank Crumb in She’s The Mayor on Vision TV.
Currently living on a farm in central Ontario where he enjoys playing his guitar and composing his own songs, McGrath recently released his debut record Stranger, a compilation of hauntingly beautiful ballads and stories. His sound has been compared to singer-songwriter greats Harry Chapin and John Hiatt.
“I live in one of the prettiest little towns in Ontario,” McGrath says of Janetville, where his farm is located. “I love living out in the country. It’s peaceful, yet very inspiring.”
We look forward to welcoming Derek McGrath — along with his many talents and incomparable wit — to Market Hall on April 10 during the third annual Peterborough Speakers Series.
Have you ever wondered how some people go the distance — and beyond? Find out at the Peterborough Speakers Series, an unforgettable evening of thought-provoking entertainment featuring seven acclaimed speakers.
This year’s speakers are Ashley Brzozowicz (2012 Olympic Silver Medalist), Ted Higgins (President, Peterborough Lakers), Shannon McNevan (Partner, Boots and Hearts Music Festival), John Moss (Mystery Writer), Bill and Barb Johnston (Dynamic Duo Motivational Speakers), Dr. Tom Phillips (Trent University, Economic Commentator), and Derek McGrath (Actor/Musician).
The Greater Peterborough Health Services Foundation presents Unstoppable, the third annual Peterborough Speakers Series, at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 10, 2013 at The Market Hall (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough). Doors open at 6 p.m. with speakers presenting at 7 p.m. Each guest will speak for 10 to 15 minutes, and there will be a cocktail reception following the speeches where attendees can meet and mingle with the speakers. Tickets are $50, with proceeds from the event supporting the Health Services Foundation.
