LARA Cowin is spending the festive season bringing joy to hundreds of youngsters as part of the stage version of the best selling story, Stick Man.

Based on the book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, Stick Man encounters a bounding dog, who just wants to play fetch. This sparks a series of unfortunate adventures, which lead him far from home.

As the seasons pass Stick Man meets a surprising friend who might just be able to help him get home.

But will he get back to the family tree in time for Christmas?

The award-winning production, from the teams behind Tiddler and other Terrific Tales and The Scarecrows’ Wedding, features a trio of top actors and is packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves. There’s even some snow thrown in to add to the festive feel.

Laura is no stranger to the show, having starred in the production in London’s West End.

She has also starred in other children’s shows Peppa Pig’s Surprise and Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom.

Here she takes time out from performing live to answer a few questions.

Who do you play in Stick Man?

Stick Lady Love.

Which is your favourite part of the show?

This varies but I do really enjoy the ‘snow scene’ which takes place a little later in the show. Stick Man has been through a lot and this moment is rather poignant. He’s cold, months have passed, the seasons have changed and the stakes are getting higher. Will he ever make it back to the Family Tree?

What are you most looking forward to when performing at The Lowry?

I have always wanted to perform at The Lowry so I am very excited about this upcoming run! I have only ever heard positive things about the venue.

Plus, I am really looking forward to getting to know Manchester. I have only been to the city a couple of times, but I think it will be a magical place over Christmas. I’m delighted to be here.

What moment in the show do children most react to?

The children usually love the moments with audience interaction such as the dog chase and the beach ball scene.

Sometimes their enthusiasm and sheer joy is totally infectious and makes our job onstage incredibly rewarding.

The children often know all the words and are bold enough to speak along with us.

I particularly love it when they shout words of reassurance to Stick Man like; ‘don’t worry, you’ll make it back to the Family Tree!’. That’s very cute.

Why should families come to see Stick Man?

Stick Man is not just a children’s show, it’s for the whole family.

It’s imaginative, quirky, funny and a vibrant spectacle with singing, music and dancing.

It’s a beautiful story with heart - you care about the characters and, mostly, Stick Man finding his way safely home. It has been a joy to return to the role of Stick Lady Love.

Stick Man, The Lowry, Salford Quays, performances until Sunday, January 6. Details from 0843 208 6005 or www.thelowry.com