DANNY Stokes grew up watching Scooby Doo, so imagine his delight when he was cast as the hapless Shaggy. The 28-year-old actor talks about the new show coming to the Swan this month and filming an advert for the World Cup.

Scooby and the gang are coming to High Wycombe in a new stage show, Scooby Doo - The Mystery Of The Pyramid. Transported to ancient Egypt they face treacherous challenges while trying to uncover the mystery of Pharaoh Hatchepsout’s pyramid.

The show is faithful to the animations- with the signature theme song and spectacular effects.

Danny said: "I have been a fan of Scooby Doo since I was very young.

"Before I used to go to school I used to watch Scooby Doo and Wacky Races in the morning.

"Shaggy was always my favourite character.

"My agent called me and he was so excited. He said: 'I have got you an audition. It is Scooby Doo and for Shaggy!'"

The actor, who graduated from the Birmingham School of Acting in 2009, has done a lot of character acting throughout his career and is used to doing impressions.

He watched a lot of the films and animations, and has even perfected the unique way the mystery solving team run.

As for Shaggy's voice, he said: "I started with Kermit the Frog and broke his voice a bit and you're there."

And to get into the role, he went to the audition wearing the red and green colours of Shaggy.

Danny said: "It is such a well known character to so many people.

"It is a lot to kind of take on board- so many people are aware of his characteristics.

"It is a strange feeling."

Eddie Arnold will lead the cast as Scooby Doo, Julia Cave in the role of Daphne, Louise Wright as Velma, and Josh Little playing Fred.

They will be joined by actors Douglas Walker as Otto, Stuart Vincent as Ben, Eleanor O’Grady as Mira, and Phillip Quigley as understudy and resident Dance Captain.

Danny said: "I think the kids will really enjoy it and find it really funny. Eddie as Scooby is fantastic- the costume and the way he looks and the way he moves.

"There is enough nostalgia there to keep adults interested as well.

"I think it is fantastic and can't think of anybody who wouldn't enjoy it.

"Even though everyone says it is always easy to guess who did it, everyone enjoys trying to guess.

"Everyone tries to guess who it is, while enjoying the ride."

Last year he filmed an episode of Silk for the BBC and also starred in Doctors.

And this summer his face will be seen across the world in a Pringles advert for the World Cup.

He said: "We all leave drama school. I think we have these little aspirations- you don't tell anyone.

"It is nice to say you are doing something a lot of people are going to see."

For now, Danny will be focusing on playing Shaggy in this tour.

He said: "This is an absolute dream to work on such a good production."

Scooby Doo, The Mystery of the Pyramid, is at the Wycombe Swan on April 7 at 6.30pm and April 8 at 1 and 4.30pm. Tickets are £15.50 to £20.50 with a £1.50 booking fee from 01494 512000 or go to www.wycombeswan.co.uk.