IT'S never too early to introduce your child to the theatre, and here is a chance for them to join the woolly sheep, the hairy hog, the fat red hen and the dainty dog as they take on the villains in the hit musical stage adaptation of What the Ladybird Heard.

The production - based on the best-selling Macmillan published picture book by Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks and - promises to be an action packed 55-minute adventure with original songs, live music, puppetry, audience participation and lots of laughs, making it the perfect treat for families with children aged three and up.

It has already appeared in the West End, toured the UK, travelled to Hong Kong, Singapore and Dubai, and has even headlined in the Kids Field at Glastonbury.

The story is set around two crafty robbers, one tiny ladybird and a whole farmyard of fun.

Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len have a cunning plan to steal the farmer’s fine prize cow. But the tiniest, quietest creature of all - the Ladybird - has a plan of her own!

What the Ladybird Heard Live comes to Palace Theatre, in London Road, for two days only on June 30 and July 1 as part of a major UK and international tour direct from the West End.

Visit southendtheatres.org.uk or call 01702 351135 to book.