A Penzance theatre is set to go on tour with a special story adaptation written by its associate director.

Writer David Melling’s illustrated stories of a lonely prince and a loyal knight, The Kiss that Missed has been read by children and parents for a generation and will soon be heading to the stage.

Having been granted permission by the author and publishers, Hachette Children’s Group, the Minack Theatre has announced that it will be bringing the stories to the stage for the first time, in a special adaptation written and directed by storyteller and Associate Director of the Minack, John Brolly.

John Brolly said: "The concept of a rogue, escaped kiss is just so brilliant.

"I have watched the delight on countless children’s faces as I have retold David’s beautiful story.

"His illustrations are also a joy and you can’t help but relate to the hapless knight on his seemingly impossible mission.

"It just seemed perfect for the stage and I am so glad that David thought so too."

The book’s author and illustrator, David Melling, is delighted to support the Minack’s new venture.

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Melling said: "I couldn’t be more thrilled to see these knightly tales come to the stage.

"The Kiss That Missed, soon to celebrate its 20th year, was the first book I both wrote and illustrated and holds a special place in my heart.

"I love what the team have done to adapt the stories, breathing fresh, new life into the knight and his faithful horse as they stumble around the Wild Wood.

"Hilarious!"

Sarah Lennon Galavan, Senior Licensing Executive at Hachette Children’s Group, explains the enduring appeal of this best-selling series, saying: "The Kiss That Missed has been a beloved bedtime story for almost 20 years, with a beautiful message of love and family at its heart.

"David Melling’s delightful fairy tale invites children on a dramatic adventure they’re bound to enjoy, as they join the brave knight on an epic quest to retrieve the missing kiss."

The theatre claims its stage version has all the humour and charm of the original stories, plus some new songs and, of course, plenty of kisses bouncing around.

The Kiss that Missed will be performed at the Minack from 29 – 31 October, before embarking on a tour to school and community venues throughout Cornwall.

Any schools or venues interested in booking a performance should contact the Minack’s Education Officer, Kim Nicholls kim@minack.com for more information.

For ticket information on this and all other events at the Minack, visit minack.com, or phone 01736 810181.

Advance booking is essential for all performances.