Written by Children's Poet Laureate Michael Rosen and illustrated by the award-winning Helen Oxenbury, the original book has become a timeless classic that has entertained young children since 1989. This stage version, directed by Sally Cookson and featuring a score by Benji Bower and design by Katie Sykes, follows a family's excitement as they wade, splash and squelch through a variety of imaginative environments in search of a bear. According to press materials, Cookson describes the production as a "celebration of play." The design utilizes a host of everyday objects and materials in order to draw young audiences into this imaginary world.

Cookson previously directed the show for a successful run at the Bristol Old Vic. Her directing work has included collaborations with designer Katie Sykes and composer Benji Bower, such as Aesop's Fables (Scamp Theatre), The Ugly Duckling (Tobacco Factory) and Papa Please Get the Moon for Me (Bristol Old Vic). This summer season of We're Going on a Bear Hunt at the Duchess Theatre follows the highly successful Christmas season of The Gruffalo at the same theatre. Both shows are produced by Kenny Wax Ltd and Nick Brooke Ltd.

Tickets go on sale at 10 AM on Feb. 23. To book tickets contact the box office at 0844 412 4659 or visit www.nimaxtheatres.com. Tickets are priced £14.50 and £11.50, with groups of ten or more at £8.50, and a school rate of £8.50 for which teachers go free.