A performance specially created for Portland will make its debut at the island theatre.

The Pink Pippos of Portland is based upon a children's book by local author Sandra Fretwell and has been created by her daughter Sophie Fretwell.

The family musical will be staged at Royal Manor Theatre in Fortuneswell on July 24 and 25.

The show is based upon the popular Chesil Beach-based children's books featuring the Pippos of Portland. The Pippos are a group of pink hippo-like creatures that live under the sea along Chesil Beach, cleaning up and having exciting adventures alongside a young girl called Sophie.

Sandra Fretwell is better known as the costume designer for the Royal Manor Theatre and her designs can be seen in the regular productions, most notably the yearly pantomimes.

Sophie is now a successful theatre costume designer and illustrator in her own right, with a degree in costume and theatre set design and a masters in animation. She has credits in many theatre productions as well as working in some well known film and TV productions, such as Good Omens and BBC America's The Watch.

Sandra originally wrote the books to entertain her daughter in 2002, and now they have teamed up alongside the theatre with support from Quiddles Cafe and the Arts Council to create a unique musical storybook performance based on the books.

Sophie said: "As a little girl, I loved the stories about the Pippos growing up, so I am so excited to bring them to life for boys and girls today.

"And to be able to do something so ambitious alongside my mum is a real dream come true!"

Dave Mackay, Chairman of the Royal Manor Theatre is excited about opening up the theatre again for the first time after the pandemic.

He said: "After the year we've had, it's marvellous to re-open with such a vibrant, funny and positive production. We love our theatre on Portland, and can't wait to see people come back and enjoy the show."

The Royal Manor Theatre, situated in Fortuneswell on Portland, has been supporting local productions for more than 50 years.

The Pink Pippos of Portland starts on Saturday July 24, with performances at 2pm and 6pm, repeated on Sunday July 25, at 2pm and 6pm. The performance lasts just under an hour and is suitable for all ages.

Tickets are available now, via the Royal Manor Theatre website, the box office (03336 663366), The Royal Portland Arms, Cards and Celebrations in Easton, and Vintage 7 cafe in Reforne. The price of tickets is £6 for children, £7 for adults (16+).

Refreshments and snacks are available at the venue.

The Pink Pippos of Portland books can be found on Amazon and in local book shops.