DOWNTON Abbey creator Julian Fellowes will bring theatrical magic to Southampton later this year with a highly-anticipated major new musical theatre adaptation of The Wind In The Willows.

The Mayflower Theatre is just one of three venues that will premiere the show ahead of its West End run.

It visits the Mayflower Theatre from November 10 following dates at Theatre Royal in Plymouth and The Lowry in Salford.

Based on Kenneth Grahame’s treasured novel which has captivated generations of readers for over a century, The Wind In The Willows has been adapted for the stage with a book by Oscar-winning screenwriter Fellowes and Olivier Award-winning composer and lyricist team George Stiles and Anthony Drewe.

This is the first time the three have worked together since their hugely successful collaboration on the international hit musical Mary Poppins which ran for three years in the West End and six years on Broadway.

In Kenneth Grahame’s tale about the thrill-seeking Mr Toad, he is joined by Ratty, Badger and Mole who embark on a series of adventures and misadventures caused by his insatiable need for speed! Imprisoned for theft and with his existence under threat from the inhabitants of the Wild Wood, Toad must attempt a daring escape to defend Toad Hall.

Producer Jamie Hendry said: “I am delighted that we will be opening The Wind in the Willows in some of the country’s most prestigious venues prior to the West End.

“It has been a joy working with such a distinguished team of writers and creatives to develop that rare thing – a new British musical.”

He also announced that he is sending copies of Kenneth Grahame’s novel to every school and library in Southampton launching an incentive to provide readers of all ages the opportunity to enjoy The Wind in the Willows before the musical opens.

Full details on casting will be announced in due course.