COMING direct from the West End, We're Going on a Bear Hunt has been delighting audiences in Basingstoke with its noisy, fun-filled adaption of the much-loved Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury book.

The production at The Haymarket, set to Benji Bower's lively score, tells the story of an intrepid family of adventurers on their quest to find a bear.

They transport the audience on an exciting journey through swishy swashy grass, a splishy splashy river, thick oozy mud and a swirling whirling snow storm before arriving at a dark gloomy cave.

The creativity of the production was genius and inspired the children's imagination, encouraging them to visualise what was happening on stage with simple but very effective props.

From buckets filled with water representing a river to cardboard boxes stacked high symbolising a dark forest, the talented actors and accompanying music brought the ordinary items to life.

The music and sound effects played a vital role throughout the show, accentuating the humorous moments and creating an atmosphere.

Some unusual instruments were played live on stage, creating interesting sound effects and allowing the actors to use them to perfect timing, resulting in giggles from the audience.

There was just enough fear to create excitement and build tension as the gang searched for a bear, but not enough to terrify the young audience.

The catchy songs had the audience tapping along, and there was plenty of interaction to engage the children, as well as keep the adults amused, particularly when we all received a soaking!

The upbeat show was full of surprises and humour, thoroughly entertaining both children and adults for the hour duration.

My son came away excitedly talking about the giant bear, which thankfully ended up being the cuddly kind.

We're Going on a Bear Hunt will be on at the Haymarket until Sunday, 31 March.

For more information and tickets visit anvilarts.org.uk/bear-hunt.