Fairly soon, Bernard

Acclaimed children's author and illustrator David McKee's much-loved classic Not Now, Bernard is set to tour the UK in a funny new stage adaptation aimed at small children.

Best known as the creator of the beloved Elmer books, McKee remains one of Britain's most popular children's storytellers. Packed with physical comedy and live music, Roustabout’s theatrical adaptation introduces a new generation to one of David McKee's most popular stories.

First published in 1980, the book tells the story of Bernard, who has found a monster in the back garden but whose mum and dad are just too busy to notice. Bernard tries to befriend the monster... and that doesn't go quite to plan. At its heart, the show explores what happens when children feel unheard and looks at the importance of genuine connection.

Director Toby Hulse said, “It's an absolute classic picture book, by a true master of the form. I can still remember first reading it to children, and the extraordinary mixture of laughter, surprise and disbelief it provoked.

"Though our characters may be ignoring each other, our four performers are definitely not! And we have a beautiful set and costume design that vividly recreates David McKee’s iconic and colour-drenched illustrations."

The show can be seen at Gosforth CIvic Centre, Newcastle (October 24), Waterside Arts, Manchester (October 25), the Hullabaloo, Darlington (October 29-30), Montgomery Theatre, Sheffield (February 16-17, 2027), ARC Stockton, (February 20) and Lowry, Salford (February 21).

More info and tickets here