The Theatre Royal, in Bury St Edmunds, has today announced, on the 125th anniversary of the publication of Jerome K Jerome’s novel Three Men in a Boat, that it will be bringing the tale of derring-do, boats and blazers to the stage later this year.

Working with local company, The Original Theatre Company, which is based in Whepstead, it is hoped that the production will kick off their autumn season in truly fine style.

Although full details of the season have yet to be announced, it has been confirmed that the production will run from September 4 to 12, before going on a national tour.

Karen Simpson, director of the theatre, said: “I’m really thrilled that two local companies are going to be working together on such a fun, colourful production of a well-loved novel.”

The Original Theatre Company brought Birdsong to the Theatre Royal this spring and received rave reviews and packed auditoriums up and down the country.

Alastair Whatley, director of the company said: “Jerome K Jerome has been accused of writing the funniest book of all time.

“Now, 125 years later, it still has the power to make people laugh uncontrollably in public places.

“Craig Gilbert’s adaptation also manages to make people laugh uncontrollably, but in the safety of a theatre. Following our emotional and epic production of Birdsong, I am really looking forward to working with the Theatre Royal.”