A STAGE version of one of the 20th century’s best loved novels comes to Southampton next year following a sell-out West End run.

The critically-acclaimed production of To Kill A Mockingbird exploring racial prejudice in the deep south will be coming to the Mayflower.

Telling the story of righteous United States lawyer Atticus Finch representing a black man charged with rape, it has proved a success as a book, in film and on the stage.

The 1960 novel was awarded the Pulitzer Prize, followed by the film adaptation in 1962 which won three Oscars out of the eight it was nominated for, including one for actor Gregory Peck as Finch.

Based on Harper Lee’s book, and directed by Timothy Sheader the show has seen packed performances throughout its nationwide tour.

It opened last year’s season at the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre in London before touring.

The show – which runs from Tuesday, March 17 to Saturday, March 21 – will feature Daniel Betts as Atticus Finch alongside Zackary Momoh as Tom Robinson and Christopher Akrill as Boo Radley.

Geoff Aymer takes on the part of Reverend Sykes while Victoria Bewick plays Mayella Ewell.

The children performing at the Mayflower Theatre will be Ava Potter as Scout, Connor Brundish as Dill and Arthur Franks as Jem.

Original cast member and composer Phil King will reprise his role.

The same cast are also appearing when the stage heads to the Festival Theatre in Chichester from Monday, January 19 to Saturday, January 24.

Tickets are on sale from the Mayflower box office on 023 80711 811 or via mayflower.org.uk.

For tickets to the Festival Theatre, Chichester performances contact 01243 781312 or visit cft.org.uk.