A new musical based on comedian David Baddiel's best-selling book The Parent Agency premieres at Chester's Storyhouse arts centre in the new year (February 15-March 2), with music and lyrics from Everybody's Talking About Jamie composer Dan Gillespie-Sells.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of Baddiel’s much-loved children's adventure, which has sold over 355,000 copies worldwide.
Baddiel said: “I’m so happy my first children’s book is going to be made into a musical.
"It takes a very real child on a magical journey that seems to really suit big musical moments - and these have been brilliantly provided by the genius that is Dan Gillespie-Sells.”
Eleven-year-old Barry Bennett hates his name; it's number one on the list of things he blames his parents for, along with being boring, never buying him cool stuff, being tired all the time and being too strict.
So he makes a wish for a better mum and dad and finds himself whisked away to an alternate universe, in which kids get to pick their perfect parents with the assistance of the staff of the Parent Agency.
Dan Gillespie-Sell. is best known is the lead singer and songwriter of The Feeling and has enjoyed widespread acclaim for his work in musical theatre. His score for Everybody's Talking about Jamie received multiple Olivier award nominations, toured internationally and was adapted into the movie version of the show. His work has also earned him an Ivor Novello award, Olivier, BAFTA and BRIT nominations and he was named Stonewall's Entertainer of the Decade in 2015 for his contributions to the LGBT community.
He said: “I’m excited to be working with David Baddiel. I’ve always been a fan of his.”
Tickets are already on sale for Storyhouse members, and go on general sale on Friday.
More info and tickets here