Everyone has heard of Cats the musical up in the West End, well now it's time for the dogs to have their turn.

Dogs the Musical starts a two-month run at Colour House Theatre on Saturday and follows the journey of Digger as he attempts to find his way home having got lost in the snow.

During this journey he is cared for by the stray barn dogs, has to escape the evil dogcatcher, shelters by the campfire of the Spanish dancers and visit the circus where he ends up persuading the caged performing dogs to protest against their humiliation.

He meets many interesting people too from the strong woman and the magician to the lion tamer and the Tumbling Tornadoes.

The musical has been written by Merton councillor Linda Kirby, the chairwoman and resident writer for Colour House Theatre.

"I have written loads of children's musicals in the past but these have been for children to perform, " she says.

"It's quite different writing for adults.

"The scripts are much easier because you are dealing with professional actors who can deliver complicated lines."

Dogs the Musical, Merton Abbey Mills, Watermill Way February 13 to April 18 weekends only, 2pm, 4pm, £9, ages 3+. Call 020 8542 5511 or visit colourhousetheatre.co.uk.