Much-loved storybook character the Gruffalo returns to the Rose in Kingston next week with his very own sequel.

Following the sell-out success of The Gruffalo, acclaimed theatre company Tall Stories will be presenting The Gruffalo’s Child.

Siobhan Higgins, general manager, says: “The Gruffalo’s Child is our biggest tour yet, across the UK and Ireland.

"All the best things from The Gruffalo live on stage – catchy songs, your favourite characters, plus the Gruffalo’s little monster – a cuddly new addition.

"Are you ready to meet the Gruffalo’s Child?”

The Gruffalo followed a mighty mouse whose walk through the forest sees him encounter the likes of an owl, fox and a snake who all wanted to eat him; but all were fearful of being eaten themselves by the Gruffalo, the fictional beast conjured up by the mouse to save himself.

The Gruffalo’s Child centres on the daughter of the friendly beast, who goes against her father’s advice to explore a dark and snowy winter’s night.

Based on Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson and Alex Scheffler’s hugely acclaimed picture book, the stage adaptation features some colourful costumes and songs.

Described by The List, an online review, as being “everything good children’s theatre should be”, the play features Ellie Bell as The Gruffalo’s Child, Lesley Cook as Mouse and Tom Crook as The Gruffalo/Predators.

The Gruffalo’s Child, The Rose Theatre, High Street, Kingston.

From Thursday, March 14 to Sunday, March 17. Tickets £8.50 to £12.

Call 08444 821 556 or visit rosetheatrekingston.org.