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.
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions about the 2024 Open-Air Theatre Festival:
Seating:
- No seating is provided. Please bring low-back seating and/or blankets,
- An area for people on blankets is reserved at the front.
- If you still wish to be socially distanced please sit towards the rear or sides of the audience area
- Performances start at the stated time so please arrive in good time to take your seats
Tickets:
- Disabled people are welcome to a free ticket for their carer/assistant. Please call the box office on 01805 624624
- Every 11th ticket is free for group bookings. Available via the box office on 01805 624624
- Tickets, if not sold out, are also available on the gate (cash or cards).
- Ticket holders enjoy free access to the gardens two hours before 7pm performances and one hour before earlier performances. (Or earlier for pre-show drama workshop ticket holders)
- Most performances last approx 2 hours with a 20 minute interval
- Minimum ages are advisory only. Please use your discretion.
Refreshments:
- Please support the high quality onsite catering/bar facilities that are available at most venues
- Check with the individual venue for more details.
- Hartland Abbey: Ring for details (tbc)
- Castle Hill Filleigh: Tea/coffee sandwiches & cakes etc
- Tapeley Park: Hot & cold food and bar
- Arlington Court (NT): Hot & cold food and bar
- Clovelly Court Park: Soft drinks + tea/coffee available.
- Blackberry Farm Milton Damerel: Hot & cold food and bar
- Castle Hill Gardens, Torrington: Hot & cold food and bar
- The Lodge, Eggesford: Bar and Barbecue
- Castle Drogo (NT): Please bring your own picnics/drinks
- Lapford Mill, Mid Devon: Hot & cold food and bar
- Reforge Retreat: Bar and snacks available
- Badock Gardens, Holsworthy: Teas/coffees/biscuits
Weather:
- Performances continue regardless of the weather. Be prepared.
- There are no indoor alternatives in case of bad weather.
- In the event of electrical storm, tickets will be exchanged for another date.
- The following may be useful: A torch, insect repellent, an umbrella (or sunshade!)
Dogs:
- Well behaved dogs are welcome at most venues. Check with the venue. (Castle Drogo (NT): Assistance dogs only.)
Access:
- Most venues have level access, adjacent parking and accessible toilet facilities. For specific access information please call the box office on 01805 624624 or contact the individual venue via their website.
Other Info:
- Please bring cash for a raffle to support The Plough Arts Centre. £1 per ticket. One winner takes half the proceeds!