If your house is anything like most Adelaide homes with primary schoolers, you’ve probably got a well-thumbed stack of Dog Man books wedged between the couch cushions. Dav Pilkey’s wildly popular graphic novel series, a spin-off from the Captain Underpants universe, has captured the hearts of young readers everywhere. And now, the part-dog, part-police-officer hero is bounding off the page and onto the Adelaide Festival Centre stage.
Dog Man the Musical lands at the Dunstan Playhouse from 9 to 18 October 2026, and tickets are on sale now. If you’ve got kids who devour these books faster than you can buy them, this is one to lock in.
What’s the story?
For the uninitiated, here’s the deal. Dog Man was created when a police officer and his canine partner were injured in an explosion. In a moment of inspired absurdity, a nurse stitched the dog’s head onto the cop’s body, creating the world’s greatest crime-fighting hero. Yes, it’s completely ridiculous. Yes, kids absolutely love it.
The musical follows Dog Man as he faces his greatest challenge yet. While battling baddies and protecting the city, he finds a mysterious kitten who he names Li’l Petey. This tiny furball might just hold the key to defeating the nefarious Petey the Cat once and for all. But there’s a twist, as there always is when cats are involved.
Why kids love Dog Man
Dav Pilkey has a knack for speaking directly to kids. His stories are packed with silly humour, fart jokes (naturally), and surprisingly heartfelt messages about friendship, kindness and redemption. The books are also brilliantly designed for reluctant readers, with comic-style panels, flip-o-rama pages, and a visual style that keeps even the most easily distracted kids engaged.
The Dog Man series has sold over 60 million copies worldwide and been translated into more than 40 languages. It’s not hard to see why. These books meet kids exactly where they are, without ever talking down to them.
What to expect from the musical
This theatrical adaptation brings Pilkey’s distinctive illustration style to life through creative staging, original music, and plenty of the slapstick comedy that makes the books so beloved. Expect bright visuals, catchy songs, and a production designed to appeal to young audiences while keeping parents entertained too.
The show is recommended for children aged five and up, making it perfect for early primary schoolers who are firmly in the Dog Man fan club. Running time is approximately 90 minutes, with an interval for loo breaks and snack refuelling.
Get a sneak peek
Want to give your kids a taste of what’s to come? Check out this trailer to see Dog Man in action on stage.
The details
What: Dog Man the Musical
When: 9 to 18 October 2026
Where: Dunstan Playhouse, Adelaide Festival Centre
Ages: Recommended for ages 5+
Tickets: On sale now via Adelaide Festival Centre
Whether your kids have read every Dog Man book twice or are just discovering this hilarious hero, seeing their favourite character live on stage is sure to be a highlight of the October school holidays. Get in quick, because shows like this tend to sell out fast.
www.adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au
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