THERE will be some monkeying around at Wolverhampton's Grand Theatre as it hosts a multi-million pound production featuring television personality Phillip Schofield.

The former front man for the West End blockbuster Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, is starring as Doctor Dolittle at the theatre.

The children's favourite, based on the classic children's stories by Hugh Lofting, is the biggest production ever to be staged at the theatre. The play also stars the legendary Julie Andrews as the voice of Polynesia the Parrot.

The show follows the doctor who learns to talk to the animals as he travels the globe.

The musical was adapted for stage by Leslie Bricusse - the creator of the classic 1960s film based on the children's books - and includes the songs Talk to the Animals and I've Never Seen Anything Like It.

Iain Watkins, marketing manager at the theatre, said with animatronic creatures brought to life by Jim Henson's Creature Shop - the company behind the special animal effects of Babe and 101 Dalmatians - the show was sure to be a fantastic treat for all.

He said with a superb cast and fantastic special effects, he was sure it would be a great night for all ages.

"It has gone down very well," he said.

"It's a great family musical loosely based on the film, so it is a real spectacle.

"There really is something for everyone with songs and jokes and special effects."

Television star Paul Nicholas of Just Good Friends fame is the production's special guest and will be performing as the Doctor for all Saturday performances.

Tickets to the production, which cost between £10.50 and £30.50, can by purchased by calling the theatre's box office on 01902 429212.

Concessions are available for children, families and groups to the musical, which runs until Saturday, June 30.