The chaotic, crime-fighting canine from the globally popular children's books is leaping from the page to the stage. A brand new musical adaptation of Dav Pilkey's 'Dog Man' series has been officially announced, with its world premiere set for London's Southbank Centre in 2026.
From Bestselling Books to Theatrical Spectacle
The production promises to bring the hilarious and heartfelt adventures of the part-dog, part-policeman hero to life. The creative team boasts significant theatrical firepower. The musical will feature a book and lyrics by Timothy Allen McDonald, the writer behind successful adaptations like 'Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach'.
Music and lyrics will be provided by the acclaimed team of Brad Alexander (music) and Kevin Del Aguila (lyrics), known for their work on 'Click, Clack, Moo' and 'Dogfight'. The show will be directed by Jeremy Sams, a seasoned director with numerous West End and Broadway credits.
The announcement confirms a significant cultural coup for the Southbank Centre, securing the world premiere of a show based on a literary phenomenon. The 'Dog Man' series, created by the author of 'Captain Underpants', has sold over 50 million copies worldwide, ensuring a built-in audience of eager young fans and their families.
A Creative Vision for a Beloved Character
In statements, the creative team expressed their enthusiasm for the project. Director Jeremy Sams described the challenge as capturing the "anarchic energy and big heart" of Pilkey's books. He emphasised the aim to create a show that is visually inventive and musically vibrant, appealing to both children and adults.
Lyricist Kevin Del Aguila hinted at the show's tone, suggesting the score would blend various musical styles to match the series' signature mix of slapstick humour and sincere themes of friendship, kindness, and redemption.
While specific casting and detailed design concepts are yet to be revealed, producers have confirmed that the production will utilise innovative staging and puppetry to realise the unique hybrid physique of Dog Man and his colourful cast of friends and foes, like Petey the Cat and Li'l Petey.
Anticipating a Major Family Theatre Event
The premiere is scheduled for the summer of 2026, with exact dates and ticketing information to follow in the coming year. The production is expected to be a cornerstone of the Southbank Centre's family programming, potentially leading to a wider UK or international tour following its London run.
This adaptation marks a continued trend of translating massively successful children's book properties into major stage musicals, following the paths of 'Harry Potter', 'The Gruffalo', and 'The Tiger Who Came to Tea'. The involvement of such an experienced theatrical team suggests an ambition to create a show with lasting appeal, rather than a fleeting franchise piece.
For the Southbank Centre, hosting the premiere aligns with its mission to present accessible, high-quality arts for all ages. The announcement has already generated considerable excitement within the theatre industry and among the millions of readers who have followed Dog Man's graphic novel exploits.
