Nativity! The Musical, Eventim Apollo

No Christmas is complete without a version of the nativity story, ideally with a tribe of tea-towel wearing shepherds a nervous narrator who forgets the words. This year, the feelgood festivity combines with uproarious humour and a new score of songs in Nativity! The Musical, which returns after impressing last year.

Based on the much-loved 2009 film, the show will see the return of lacklustre teacher Mr Maddens and his wacky assistant, Mr Poppy. Together they muddle their way into producing St Bernadette's school nativity play – to a Hollywood standard.

Debbie Isitt, who created the films, has written and directed the stage adaptation. Scott Garnham is set to star as Paul Maddens, a role previously occupied by Martin Freeman. Simon Lipkin (Wind in the Willows, The Lorax) will play Mr Poppy. And father/daugher duo Danny and Danni Dyer bring some star power for soap fans or lovers of reality TV. A troupe of jingle-belled children will join them, and, as those who have enjoyed the first and second Nativity! films will already know, it's the children who really drive the laughter and the 'awww' factor.

Nativity! The Musical featurez new songs as well as catchy film songs Sparkle and Shine, Nazareth and One Night One Moment. Join in the zany adventure as the staff of St Bernadette's attempts to put on a Christmas show you'll never forget.

Nativity! The Musical starts a 2018 UK tour in Coventry before transferring to London from 19 to 31 December.