THE King’s Speech – the play from which the Oscar-winning movie was adapted – will open at Birmingham Repertory Theatre later this month.

The play, running from February 25 to March 7, stars Raymond Coulthard as King George VI and Jason Donovan as his Australian speech therapist Lionel Logue.

The play tells the iconic story of King George VI’s relationship with his speech therapist.

As the world stands on the brink of war, King Edward VIII sparks controversy with his love for married socialite, Wallis Simpson.

As Edward’s position become increasingly untenable, his brother Bertie, who has previously shied away from the public eye because of a terrible stammer, is thrust in to the spotlight as his likely successor.

With the support of his wife Elizabeth (the much-loved future Queen Mother), Bertie meets maverick speech therapist and failed actor, Lionel Logue, at an office in Harley Street.

Together they embark on an unlikely journey to prepare Bertie to lead his country as King George VI.

The King’s Speech is the true and heart-warming story of one man’s struggle to overcome his personal affliction and, in his country’s darkest hour, deliver the now iconic speech broadcast across the globe to inspire his people.

One of the most successful British films of all time, The King’s Speech won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Actor and Best Director, as well as seven BAFTAs, including Best Film.

Jason Donovan’s theatre credits include Sweeney Todd, The Sound of Music, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Priscilla Queen of the Desert.

He said: "I am really looking forward to The King’s Speech and getting into the character of Logue.

"He was such an interesting and remarkable Australian, who achieved so much in a very challenging situation and I think he will be fascinating to play.”

For more information, call the box office on 0121 236 4455 or visit Birmingham-rep.co.uk.