IT'S a visit destined to cause as much excitement as that of the Easter Bunny himself - the arrival of Sportacus and his fellow residents of LazyTown in Bournemouth.

Action hero Sportacus will be flying his airship to the Pavilion Theatre on Wednesday and Thursday, April 2 and 3, in time to help the townsfolk of LazyTown in the battle against Robbie Rotten and his latest lazy schemes. LazyTown is jam-packed with action, energy and a powerful message that will energise and inspire children everywhere.

Stephanie, an optimistic and enthusiastic girl with bright pink hair, comes to live in LazyTown and meets a zany mix of kids and grown-ups, including the world's laziest super-villain, Robbie Rotten. Fortunately for Stephanie, Sportacus, a slightly above-average superhero, jumps, leaps, flips and flies his way around LazyTown in his airship to fight Robbie Rotten and his lazy ways. Conceived, written and directed by the hugely talented Icelander Magnús Sheving (who also plays Sportacus in the TV show), LazyTown is a life-style brand for young children. With its lessons about making healthy food choices and being physically active, the show aims to provide children with positive role models, while still being a lot of fun.

Playing Sportacus in LazyTown Live will be Julian Essex-Spurrier, whose theatrical credits include major parts in The Rocky Horror Show, Saturday Night Fever and Footloose.

Asked about the appeal and success of LazyTown, Magnus Shelving said: "LazyTown is about action and excitement. It makes kids want to get up and do something right now. To think, move and GO!"