LIFT the flap for family entertainment as the classic children’s book Dear Zoo is brought to the stage in Halifax.

The Victoria Theatre hosts performances of Rod Campbell’s hugely popular story on March 6 and 7.

Dear Zoo has delighted generations of young readers since it was first published in 1982, and has sold more than eight million copies worldwide.

The book tells the story of a child who writes to a zoo asking them to send a pet, searching for the perfect animal.

The book will be brought to life on stage through child-engaging puppets, original music and lots of audience interaction.

It is aimed at children aged two to six years old, and is said to appeal to those who already love the book as well as serving as a wonderful introduction to children coming to the story for the first time.

A spokesman for the show said: “Rod Campbell is the master of interactive storytelling and an expert in early learning for pre-schoolers.

“As a trusted household name, his books have stood the test of time and continue to be a staple addition to the family bookshelf and a popular choice for early years’ teachers.”

Commenting on Dear Zoo being transformed into a stage show, Mr Campbell said he could hardly believe that Dear Zoo was celebrating its 35th anniversary.

He added: “I really am enormously touched and delighted that successive generations of young children continue to love Dear Zoo - their obvious pleasure when interacting with it is so gratifying to see, and for me is the very greatest of compliments!”

Beauty and the Beast is the latest Easter pantomime coming to the Victoria Theatre on April 5 at 2pm and 6pm.

Dani Harmer, who played Tracey Beaker on the BBC, again performs with comedy legend Bobby Davro, in a show from the same team as the previous years’ Wizard of Oz, Robin Hood and Peter Pan. Visit victoriatheatre.co.uk or call 01422 351158 to book tickets.