First look photos: What the Ladybird Heard on UK tour

Here’s a first look at What The Ladybird Heard as it tours the UK this winter.

The stage adaptation of Julia Donaldson’s classic story book is currently on the road after playing a limited season at West End’s Palace Theatre.

The show is on tour to 4 December with dates in Birmingham Hippodrome, The Radlett Centre, Leicester Curve, Taunton Brewhouse, Lanark Memorial Hall, The Lowry, Churchill Theatre, Arts Depot, Everyman Theatre, Milton Keynes Theatre and Southampton MAST.

Those on the cast are Nikita Johal (Spring Awakening, Hope Mill), Roddy Lynch (A Christmas Carol), James Mateo-Salt (The Pirate Queen, London Coliseum), Matthew McPherson (The Jolly Christmas Postman, Oxford Playhouse), and Abigail Middleton (Pig, Royal Court Theatre Liverpool).

What The Ladybird Heard is adapted and directed for the stage by Graham Hubbard with set, puppet & costume design by Bek Palmer, design consultant Lydia Monks, lighting design by Ric Mountjoy, composition and sound design by Jon Fiber and Andy Shaw for JollyGoodTunes and lyrics by Jon Fiber and Howard Jacques.

Showcasing live instrumental music, original songs, puppetry and rhymes galore this exciting adaptation is a treat for the whole family.

Author Julia Donaldson said of the show: “It’s fantastic to see one of my most-loved children’s books, What the Ladybird Heard, returning to the stage, both in the West End and around the UK!

“After such a hard year it’s important that we can provide creative escapism for young children, and this stage show will do just that. I can’t wait to get back to the theatre and see it myself. I believe audiences are in for a treat!”

The book’s original illustrator and Show Design Consultant Lydia Monks added: “It’s always a thrill to see my illustrations burst into life on stage and I’m very excited to be involved in this project.

“Theatre is an important tool for children’s creative development, and I believe this show is the perfect outlet. I look forward to transporting everyone to the farm for a fun family adventure!”

For full tour dates, times and tickets visit whattheladybirdheardlive.co.uk.