TWO crafty robbers, Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len, have a cunning plan to steal a farmer’s prize cow.

But what they weren’t counting on is the tiniest, quietest creature, a ladybird of all things, foiling their plans.

Families are invited to join the journey as What the Ladybird Heard comes to the Haymarket for a four-day.

Adapted from the best-selling picture book by Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks, audiences are invited to join woolly sheep, the hairy hog, the fat red hen and the dainty dog as they take on the villains.

In preparation for the show, cast members have really been getting into their roles and exploring who they believe is the best animal.

Emma Breton, who plays the farmer said: “My favourite animal would have to be my fine prize cow.

“As the farmer she is my most prized possession and the audience always gasps with amazement when she appears from her stable. That is always an exciting moment on stage.”

She added: “My favourite song is definitely Feeding Time. I love the way it gets faster and faster and I think singing in canon is very effective.

“I have to run around a lot in this song to make sure I feed all my animals, and this keeps me very fit! We also have to make sure we keep the food away from the pesky hog who will eat anything it can find.”

This action-packed 55-minute adventure has original songs, live music, puppetry, plenty of audience participation and lots of laughs, making it the perfect treat for families with children aged three and up.

Full of laughs and a whole host of farmyard fun. There will be six performances of show which showcases puppetry and involves plenty of audience participation.

When asked what a Basingstoke audience can expect from the show, Benedict Hastings, who plays Lanky Len said: “think families should expect the unexpected from this show. Whether you're five or fifty, this show has something that will make you smile, laugh and think.

“You wouldn't believe the number of grown-ups who come out the theatre humming the songs, quoting the quotes, and giggling just as much as their kids.”

The show will run from July 13 - July 15, with shows at 10.30am on Friday, 10.30am, 1.30pm and 4.30pm on Saturday and 10.30am and 1.30pm on Sunday.

For more information and tickets visit anvilarts.org.uk.