Doctor Dolittle leads a simple life as the village doctor in sleepy Puddleby-On-The-Marsh. He often undercharges his patients, or even treats them for free, so he is terribly poor. But one day, with the help of his wise old parrot Polynesia, he makes an extraordinary discovery: that he can talk to animals. As news of his talent as an animal doctor spreads, animals across the world send messages asking for his help. So he borrows a leaky old ship and embarks on a thrilling quest to cure illness, spread kindness, and better understand animals everywhere. He is joined on his adventures by a loyal animal crew: Jip (a dog), Chee-Chee (a monkey), Dab Dab (a duck), and Gub Gub (an ever-hungry, cake-loving pig) –who together may even help him fix his money problems once and for all! Hugh Lofting’s timeless classic celebrates the power of empathy and inspires audiences young and old to see the world through the eyes of animals. This funny, exciting new family musical is performed with flair and wit by Illyria in the great outdoors. 
Running time (approx): 110-minutes (including a 20-minute interval). 
Suitable for ages 5+ (younger children also welcome).
Bring suitable clothing, a picnic and a low backed chair, or a rug, although the ground is granite setts so quite hard!

Performed by Illyria:
Bursting onto the scene in 1992, Illyria has produced high-quality outdoor theatre for over thirty years. During that time, we’re proud to have continually introduced new genres which subsequently became much-loved staples of open-air theatre. In 1997, we were the first to offer children’s theatre. In 2000, we were the first to introduce classics other than Shakespeare. In 2003, we were the first to offer a Jane Austen adaptation. In 2010, we were the first to be given the professional rights to Roald Dahl scripts. In 2011, we were the first to produce Gilbert and Sullivan. In 2017, we were the first to tour with a full-size T-rex in a monster-movie homage. In 2018, we were the first to perform a full-scale musical. In 2019, we were the first to offer a rock opera. With a history of “firsts” behind us, Illyria continues to create outstandingly enjoyable outdoor theatre and make it available for everyone. We have performed for more than a million people - and intend to entertain families across the country for many more seasons to come. About Illyria (short) Our mission is simple: to create outstandingly enjoyable theatre and make it available for everyone. We’ve been pursuing this mission for over thirty years, performed for more than a million people, and intend to entertain families across the country for many more seasons to come.