It's been announced today that a Dennis The Menace stage show is to be launched in 2020.

Beano Studios is teaming up with production company Selladoor to create an all new musical stage production based on hit TV show Dennis & Gnasher: Unleashed!.

The family friendly show, which is being developed by Selladoor - the company behind hits including Madagascar The Musical and Avenue Q - will launch in 2020 on a year-long tour of 40+ theatres and venues across the UK and Ireland.

BAFTA-winning writer/producer-director Will Brenton has been signed up to write the show, which will feature "Dennis and Gnasher's hallmark slapstick comedy and ageless humour delivered with a repertoire of songs."

The stage production follows on from the success of the international Emmy-nominated TV series Dennis & Gnasher: Unleashed!. Broadcast on CBBC, the TV show stars irrepressible hero Dennis, his dogged sidekick Gnasher and fearless mates including Rubi, JJ, Pieface and his pet potato Paul. Together they cook up crazy plans, get in all sorts of scrapes and take on every challenge, no matter how big.

Another 52 episodes of the CGI-based TV show are currently in development, with the TV format having now been sold to over 24 countries.

The stage show is currently in the "early stages" of development, with casting yet to be decided. Further details will be released in due course.

Emma Scott, CEO of Beano Studios, says: "Following the success of Dennis & Gnasher Unleashed around the world, bringing our gang to life on stage is the perfect next step. Selladoor are the ideal team to take on the exciting challenge of bringing the iconic characters to life in a show to entertain all ages."

David Hutchinson, CEO of Selladoor, comments: "Selladoor is delighted to be working with Beano Studios to bring the iconic Dennis and Gnasher to the stage for the first time with a really exciting creative team, led by Will Brenton under Anna Fox's dramaturgical eye.

"Selladoor recently launched Selladoor Creation, our development wing focused entirely on commissioning new stories for the stage. We are delighted to have been entrusted by Beano Studios with their well-loved characters who have endured for generations, and now finally leap from the page to the stage. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to bring one of the Nation's favourite rebels to life so everyone can join in on the mischief and adventures. Keep your eyes peeled for Dennis and the gang hitting a theatre near you!"