It was also at the Gielgud Theatre that the original play premiered in 1986, when the theatre was called the Globe. The new musical version features book and lyrics by Peter Sham and music by Brad Carroll.

According to press materials, it is1934, and the world's greatest tenor Tito Merelli has come to Cleveland, Ohio, to save its Grand Opera Company by singing Verdi's Otello. When he is unexpectedly incapacitated, Max, the opera director’s meek assistant, is given the daunting task of finding a last-minute replacement. Chaos ensues - including a scheming soprano, a tenor-struck ingénue, a jealous wife, shrimp gone bad and the Cleveland Police department.

Matthew Kelly will star as Henry Saunders (executive director of the Cleveland Grand Opera), with Damian Humbley as Max (Henry Saunders’ assistant, and the opera prompter), Michael Matus as ‘Tito Merelli, 'Il Stupendo' (the great Italian tenor), and Sophie-Louise Dann as Diana Divane (Prima Donna of the Cleveland Grand Opera). Further casting will be announced.

The production is directed by Ian Talbot and choreographed by Tony-nominated choreographer Randy Skinner (42nd Street, White Christmas). The production is designed by Paul Farnsworth, with lighting by Tim Mitchell, and sound by Terry Jardine and Nick Lidster. The musical supervisor is Tony Award winner Paul Gemignani and the musical director is Colin Billing. It is produced by Martin Platt and David Elliott, in association with Eileen & Allen Anes.

To book tickets, which go on sale April 15, contact the box office on 0844 482 5130, or visit www.tenorthemusical.co.uk.