I have always been fascinated with the space race of the 1960s and wanted to do a spoof on that. I like the idea of hippos going to the moon as they are the animals least likely to. It’s a very visual book, with amazing illustrations by Tony Ross, so it should be a very colourful stage production.
I love seeing adaptations of my books, and really enjoy the changes. I come from writing for television which is very collaborative and have always like working with other people. Ultimately you feel like a magician when something that was in your head becomes real.
There are so many great writers for children right now. My personal favourites right now are JK Rowling, Julia Donaldson, Dame Jacqueline Wilson and Michael Morpurgo. When I was a young child I loved Richard Scarry and Dr Seuss. My absolute hero is Roald Dahl. He is the greatest children’s writer of all time as he wrote so many brilliant books. I tend to be influenced by everything good I read, though it is pointless trying to copy anybody.
I think it’s important you write a story you would like to read. If you like funny stories write a funny story, if you like scary ones write a scary one. You can never guess what it is people want to read, so it is best you write something for yourself. If other people like it that’s a bonus.
THE FIRST HIPPO ON THE MOON
March 12
From Number One bestselling Children’s author David Walliams comes an explosively funny space adventure for children of 3 and up. Two big hippos. One ENORMOUS dream.
Who can make it to the moon first?
3 …2 …1 …BLAST OFF!
Adapted for the stage by Les Petits Theatre Company following their tour of Captain Flinn and the Pirate Dinosaurs and immersive hit Adventures in Wonderland. Featuring puppetry, music and a giant space race to the moon!
The creative team have worked on such hit shows such as Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax,
Elephantom, Warhorse and Raymond Briggs’ The Bear.
SUITABLE FOR 3+
£12 (£11) £9 Children/Plant
www.mwldan.co.uk/whatson/live-tm-tm-byw/first-hippo-moon#.WKnrRBIrLBI