Doctor Dolittle is back on stage in Leslie Bricusse’s family musical, co-produced by the Churchill Theatre and launched in Bromley last weekend.

Based on the popular 1967 film with Rex Harrison, this spectacular new show stars Mark Williams (The Fast Show, 101 Dalmatians, The Borrowers and seven of the Harry Potter film series) as the doctor.

His co-stars include Vicky Entwistle (Coronation Street, Ackley Bridge, Les Misérables) as trusty side-kick Polynesia and Brian Capron (Coronation Street, Grange Hill, Where The Heart Is) as both Albert Blossom and Straight Arrow.

Each week, Mark Williams has been reporting to News Shopper direct from the rehearsal rooms as the production has got closer to showtime. Here is his final Dr Dolittle diary entry.

SHOWTIME

What do a giant pink sea snail, a fox called Sheila, a circus owner and man who can talk to animals all have in common? Why, they’re all in in Doctor Dolittle The Musical which opened at The Churchill Theatre last weekend.

Following weeks of rehearsals in Bromley Central Library and an action-packed tech week in the theatre, including special rehearsals for the giant pink sea snail, Doctor Dolittle and a whole host of furry, feathered and fluffy friends took to the stage for the first time.

The show which tells us not only to talk to the animals but to listen to them as well, is sponsored by WWF the charity dedicated to conserving our natural wildlife.

“Choosing to support the work of WWF through our bucket collections and in theatre fundraising events was a clear choice. The show highlights the need to create a world that lives in harmony with nature and it’s a great opportunity to inspire audiences to take action," said producer John Stalker.

In celebration of the show launch, audiences at the first week of performances here in Bromley not only got to walk the red carpet into the theatre but also went away with an exclusive goody bag. One goody bag contains a golden ticket, with the chance to win some extra special treats from WWF. At the time of writing this had yet to be won.

EXCLUSIVE NEWS SHOPPER READER OFFER - £30 tickets*

We hope you have enjoyed reading Mark Williams’ weekly Doctor’s Diary with exclusive insight into the rehearsal process and introductions to his fellow cast members.

If you still haven't booked to see the show, which runs until November 24, there is an exclusive reader offer on tickets for this brand new stage adaptation.

Quote NEWSSHOPPER30 when booking your tickets online, over the phone or in person at the box office.

www.churchilltheatre.co.uk

Box office 020 3285 6000

*Offer subject to availability. Not valid on previously purchased tickets or in conjunction with any other offer or concession.