Globe theatre critic Peter Grant previews a celebration of a character at the beak of his powers ...

DONALD, Daffy, Howard, Jemima – these are a few celebrity ducks who have made their mark.

But you ain't seen anything quite like the latest feathered friend with attitude ... an overweight, whiskey-swilling, movie-loving mallard called Fup.

He will be winging his way to the Everyman Theatre landing in October.

The wonderful, strange, uproarious fable called FUP: A Modern Fable is from the always welcome Knee-high Theatre Company who was last in the city with the Wirral Globe five-star rated Tin Drum.

This big-hearted comedy is based on the novel by US writer Jim Lodge and centres on eccentric 100-year-old Jake Santee and his grandson Tiny - they both have a thirsty taste for a whiskey tipple called Ol’ Death Whisper.

So, too, is their new pal - a web-footed weird but wonderful creature.

A sure-fire hit with children over ten and adventurous adults, of course.

And this play, adapted and directed by Simon Harvey, never ducks the themed issues of family, love and morality as this duck with a dietary difference - an insatiable appetite - transforms their lives forever.

The action takes place in wild, rural Cornwall and features original, live, foot-stomping music by composer Ben Sutcliffe

Kneehigh's multi-tasking six-strong cast bring irreverence, trademark charm and their brilliant puppetry.

Gemma Bodinetz, artistic director at the Everyman and Playhouse, said: "We are always thrilled to bring the best of theatre from around the country for families.

"Our relationship with Kneehigh stretches back over decades and has involved some of the most popular and magical co-productions.

"We are very excited to see them delight our younger audiences with their mix of theatrical invention and fun once more, and feel sure it will delight those that bring them just as much."

Globe verdict: You will be quackers to miss it.

Fup: A Modern Fable will be staged from October 9 -13.

Tickets available online from www.everymanplayhouse.com/whatson/fup or the box Office on 0151 709 4776.