IT IS time for the Zany Zebras to take the spotlight on centre stage.

Southampton’s Mayflower Theatre didn’t want to be left backstage when a dazzleof colourful zebras stampede through the city next summer, so they have made sure they get a main role.

The theatre is the latest business to sign up for Marwell’s Zany Zebras public art extravaganza, which promises to be bigger and better than the Go! Rhinos event that wowed visitors in 2013.

For 10 weeks during the summer of 2016, a herd of life-sized sculptures will gallop through the streets of Southampton, creating a fun, family friendly trail for all to enjoy.

Michael Ockwell, Mayflower Theatre chief executive, said: “Mayflower Theatre is delighted to support Marwell Wildlife’s Zany Zebras campaign this year by sponsoring a sculpture.

“We enjoyed taking part in the Go! Rhinos project and thought that the project really raised awareness of conservation and put Southampton on the map that summer.

“As a theatre we aim to provide inspiring experiences and this project will inspire and engage with our local community and beyond.”

Kirstie Mathieson, project manager for Marwell’s Zany Zebras, added: “Our Go! Rhinos project in 2013 ignited the community spirit and helped to put Southampton on the map as a cultural hub.

“Having the support of Mayflower Theatre again is a fantastic endorsement for Marwell’s Zany Zebras and the potential impact the project could have on the region economically, culturally and socially.”

The animal was chosen because Marwell has strong links to the grevy zebra, for which it coordinates the international breeding programme for the breed in captivity.

The zebra sculptures will later be auctioned off to raise money for conservation work in northern Kenya.

For more information about how to sponsor one of Marwell’s Zany Zebras, visit the website http://zanyzebras.org.uk/sponsors/.