A SHIPWRECKED boy finds himself apparently stranded on a desert island with only his dog for company when a classic children's story is brought to life next month.

Michael is sailing around the world with his parents when a terrible storm in the Pacific washes him overboard.

But as he and his pet Stella struggle to survive, Michael unexpectedly discovers that he is not alone in Kensuke's Kingdom.

The play, an adaptation of the award-winning novel by Michael Morpurgo, comes to The Lowry, Salford, from July 11 to 15.

It is the latest production from Birmingham Stage Company, a group with a mission to bring the best children's literature to the stage.

Earlier successes have included a version of Rudyard Kipling's The Jungle Book.

In Kensuke's Kingdom, Michael (Iain Ridley) discovers that the seemingly deserted island is already home to one extraordinary man called Kensuke (played by Ozzie Yue, Mr Wang in TV's All Quiet On The Preston Front). He regards this island as his kingdom.

The story is suitable for all the family but expected to enthral children aged five to 14.

Michael Morpurgo has written more than 60 books and won numerous awards including the prestigious Whitbread Children's Book Award.

Kensuke's Kingdom won the 2000 Children's Book Award, the only honour voted for solely by children.

Michael, who was inspired by two of his favourite novels, Treasure Island and Robinson Crusoe, said: "It's no accident that I've written books about islands.

"I've always wanted to write my very own desert island story."

Tickets to see Kensuke's Kingdom are priced from £13 to £14 and family tickets from £36 to £44.

For details, call the box office on 0870 787 5793 or see www.thelowry.com.