FOLLOWING runs in the West End and Broadway, one of the most iconic characters in children’s literature will be wiggling his way to Stourport this month.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar features a menagerie of 75 enchanting puppets during a magical 60-minute show that adapts four of Eric Carle’s best loved books for stage - the Artist Who Painted a Blue Horse, Mister Seahorse, the Very Lonely Firefly and, of course, the Very Hungry Caterpillar.

Eric Carle’s books have captivated generations of readers with their iconic hand-painted illustrations and distinctively simple stories, introducing millions of children to a bigger, brighter world, and to their first experience of reading itself.

His best-known work, the Very Hungry Caterpillar, has nibbled its way into the hearts of millions of children all over the world. It has been translated into 62 languages and sold more than 43 million copies - remaining one of the top ten bestselling children’s books of all time.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show is adapted for stage by director Jonathan Rockefeller, whose production sees four master puppeteers weave their way through Eric Carle’s stories, bringing to life 75 magical puppets that faithfully recreate the wonderfully colourful world of Carle’s illustrations.

Mr Rockefeller said: “Eric Carle has created a deceptively simple, yet sophisticated introduction to reading through the magic of his iconic collage illustrations and memorable stories.

“I still have my original copy of the Very Hungry Caterpillar, and to this day, can’t help but be enthralled by the stylish and captivating art in Eric’s work.

“For many in the audience, this show will undoubtedly be their very first time at the theatre, so we have been very conscientious to ensure that we have absolutely faithful to their favourite characters.

“We have a menagerie of larger-than-life puppets, bursting with vibrant colour - it is astonishing to compare the original illustrations to the puppets and how exact they are.”

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show plays at the Civic, in Stourport, on Friday, June 30, from 6pm.

For tickets, call 01299 823339.