CELEBRATING 35 years in print in 2017, Dear Zoo is the story of a child who writes to the zoo asking them to send a pet.

The book continues to delight each new generation of children as they lift the flaps in search of the perfect animal.

Now the children’s favourite is making its stage premiere and will be at The Haymarket on Saturday, 28 and Sunday, 29 April.

Join Ben and his friend Sally as they wait to see what the zoo will send. All kind of animals both big and small arrive, but what will make the perfect pet?

Written by Rod Campbell, produced by Norwell Lapley Productions and directed by Michael Gattrell, Dear Zoo live on stage is suitable for children aged two to six years-old.

Brought to life through child-engaging puppets, original music and lots of audience interaction, it will immediately appeal to families and children who already love the book and will serve as a wonderful introduction to those coming to the story for the first time.

Don’t miss Grumpy Old Women to the Rescue at The Anvil on Sunday, 29 April, starring Jenny Éclair, Dillie Keane and Lizzie Roper

Fed up with flogging their guts out and always having to be in charge, the Grumpy Old Women have put their knobbly old feet up in glorious retirement, free at last to practise their extreme colouring-in, ukulele orchestra and novelty fudge-making.

But with the world in a bigger mess than ever before, is there anything that can tempt them off their backsides to unleash their superpowers and once more come to the rescue?

Join the mistresses of grump for 90 minutes of brand new full-fat, batteries-included comedy.

The show is suitable for ages 12 and over.

The popular opera Madama Butterfly is brought to The Anvil on Thursday, 3 May by Ellen Kent and Opera and Ballet International.

Puccini’s popular tale, on which the hit West End musical Miss Saigon is based, tells the heart-breaking story of the beautiful young Japanese girl who falls in love with an American naval lieutenant – with dramatic results.

Highlights include the melodic Humming Chorus, the moving aria One Fine Day and the unforgettable Love Duet.

The production features exquisite sets including a spectacular Japanese garden and fabulous costumes including antique wedding kimonos from Japan.

Ellen Kent said: “This is the most emotional and visually beautiful Madama Butterfly that I have ever toured. Having visited Puccini’s house on the lake in Italy and seen the original designs for Madama Butterfly, I know that he would have loved what I have produced with the show.”

For more information or for tickets, visit anvilarts.org.uk or call the Anvil Arts box office on 01256 844244.