Based on a picture book published in Slovenia in 2013, the play about the adventures of Lipko and his friend BasketBilly opened at the Slovenian theatre in Trieste on Wednesday.

Lipko and BasketBilly, written by the popular children's literature writer Primož Suhodolčan, is a story about the meaning of friendship, promoting sportsmanship and love for nature.

"I remembered my own childhood and teenage years while writing the story," Suhodolčan said after the premiere.

He added that after the European Championships held in Ljubljana in 1970, every boy wanted to become a professional basketball player.

The play was put on in partnership with the Slovenian Basketball Association and Slovenian basketball associations in Italy.

It will also visit kindergartens and primary schools in the area around Trieste.

Lipko is looking to become a screen hero next with a film likely in the near future.