KING of comedy, children’s literature and talent-search TV David Walliams created a right royal stir ...when he attempted to steal the Crown Jewels from the Tower of London!

Ably assisted in his dastardly deed by an elderly accomplice, it was, of course, all part of a publicity stunt to promote the launch of the world premiere of Gangsta Granny live on stage, writes HILARY PORTER.

The stage-show of Walliams’ best-selling book is being staged by Birmingham Stage Company, the acclaimed producers of Horrible Histories, and runs at Mayflower Theatre, Southampton from 30 March - 3 April 2016.

David Walliams said “It’s a huge thrill seeing Gangsta Granny about to have this whole new life on the stage in Birmingham Stage Company’s new production that will be hitting Southampton in March.

“There is lots of action in Gangsta Granny, especially when they try to steal the Crown Jewels.

“The challenge will be bringing those scenes to life.

“As well as Granny herself & Ben I like the characters of Ben’s mum and dad.

“They have an obsession with ballroom dancing which should be funny so I can’t wait to see them live on stage.

“The great thing about seeing Gangsta Granny in the theatre is you will get to share it with an audience. So hopefully you will laugh and cry along with everyone else.

“That’s what makes theatre so special.”

Walliams, who is one of the judges on the popular Britain’s Got Talent TV show, creator of the ground-breaking comedy series Little Britain and star of the recent BBC TV Agatha Christie series Partners in Crime, has now also become the best-selling author for children in the country and Gangsta Granny is his most popular book.

David began his publishing career at Harper Collins in early 2008 with his debut novel The Boy in the Dress.

Then, after writing two other popular stories, in 2011 he published Gangsta Granny, which was shortlisted for both The Red House Children’s Book Award and for the Roald Dahl Funny Prize.

At Christmas 2013 a TV version of Gangsta Granny was shown on BBC One with an all-star cast, including David Walliams himself.

Gangsta Granny went straight to number one in the children’s book charts and his books have been translated into no fewer than 30 languages.

To see more info go to www.birminghamstage.com

l Tickets for Gangsta Granny (Wed 30 March – Sun 3 April 2016) are on sale from Mayflower Theatre Box Office tel: 02380 711811 or online at mayflower.org.uk. Ovation Restaurant bookings: 02380 711833