The Colour House Theatre is celebrating its 21st anniversary, with a little help from Basil Brush.

The children's theatre will be putting on its own musical adaptation of the Wizard of Oz, with Basil guest starring as the wizard in a specially filmed performance.

The show, written by Charlie Shakespeare, will be the theatre’s 96th production since they opened in 1994.

Director and founder of the Colour House Children’s Theatre, Peter Wallder, said: "There have been so many shows that we have had such a great time with. There have been so many highlights.

"The audience have grown up with us. We have kids who used to come with their parents, who are now in their mid twenties and bring their own kids to see us."

The theatre, which is based in Merton Abbey Mills, near Colliers Wood, specialises in original adaptations of well known children’s stories.

Although the theatre has been granted charity status, it is still unfunded and relies almost entirely on ticket sales.

Mr Wallder said: "We get the odd grant, but we have to survive on what comes through the door from the box office, which can be immense pressure.

"But we have survived this long. We will survive another 21 years.

"I would love to see the theatre doing another 100 shows over the next 21 years."

The Wizard of Oz will be running at 2pm and 4pm every Saturday and Sunday from September 5 until November 8, and is advertised as suitable for ages three and up.

For more information, or to book tickets, contact the box office on 020 8542 5511 or visit www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk