The Birds and the Bees tour called off

A UK tour of Canadian comedy The Birds and the Bees which was due to feature Helen Lederer and Michael Starke has been cancelled.

Producers New Wolsey Theatre Ipswich, Norwich Theatre and Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds said in a statement: “this decision was not taken lightly, but it remains the case that the current market for touring drama is highly challenging in terms of attracting audiences.”

Mark Crawford’s play was reimagined for a UK audience, relocating the play to Norfolk with additional material by James McDermott.

It was due to open at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Guildford from 10 until 13 May and then tour to Southend, Malvern, Norwich, Richmond, Milton Keynes, Glasgow, Swansea, Cheltenham, Barnstaple, Blackpool, Birmingham, Bromley and Darlington.