A HOST of colourful characters are taking to the stage next month when figures from a popular children’s programme visit the region.

The Octonauts, an animated series shown on Cbeebies, has been turned into an action-packed stage show which visits Darlington Civic Theatre on February 21 and 22.

It will feature the programme’s central characters Captain Barnacles, Kwazii and Pezo who promise to delight youngsters with their underwater adventures.

Chris Wellings, the Civic Theatre’s audience development officer, said he is delighted the show is coming to Darlington.

He said: “Obviously we are very excited to have the Octonauts.

“It is their first live show and it is packed with excitement and adventure, introducing young people to both theatre and the importance of the environment.”

In anticipation of the show, Captain Barnacles has been out and about in Darlington, entertaining youngsters at the Dolphin Centre, Cornmill Shopping Centre and the Crown Street Library.

Tickets for the Octonauts and the Deep Sea Volcano Adventure are available now from the Civic Theatre box office priced from £11.50.