Gareth Gates in Les Misérables

Gareth Gates is starring at the Norwich Theatre Royal for Les Misérables

Internationally-renowned musical Les Misérables is coming to Norwich with Gareth Gates announced as its star.

The Pop Idol will play Marius in the brand new 25th anniversary production of the world's longest-running musical.

"We are really excited to welcome Gareth Gates to the theatre," said John Bultitude of the Norwich Theatre Royal.

The production, featuring songs I Dreamed A Dream and On My Own, hits the stage at the Norwich Theatre Royal from 16 February - 20 March, 2010.

Gareth has already proved he can cut it on the West End by landing the title role of Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.

"Gareth has gained wide acclaim for his role as Joseph and his on-stage ability must have impressed Cameron Mackintosh, allowing him to win a part in such a major tour," said John.

He is one of three performers confirmed for the cast of the show.

The lead role of Jean Valjean will be played by Broadway and West End star John Owen Jones, who was recently hailed by the New York Post as the best actor to play the role in many years.

The West End's Earl Carpenter will also perform in Norwich, playing the role of Javert.

Around 13,000 seats have already been sold for the show's visit to the city.

"This new production promises to be something special," said John.

"The tour is only visiting a handful of British theatres, so we are hoping people will travel quite a distance to come and see Les Misérables. This will hopefully have a knock-on economic benefit for hotels, restaurants and other attractions in Norfolk," he added.

Worldwide

Les Misérables, the West End hit musical, is coming to Norwich

The musical has been seen by more than 56 million people throughout 42 different countries, and performed in 21 languages worldwide.

"For this new production, not only has Victor Hugo inspired Boublil and Schönberg's legendary musical adaptation, he has also provided, through some of his extraordinary artwork, the inspiration for the spectacular new sets," said Sir Cameron Mackintosh, British theatrical producer.

Les Misérables first opened at London's Barbican Theatre on 8 October, 1985, and the production became a permanent resident at the city's Queens Theatre in 2004.

When it celebrated its 21st birthday on 8 October, 2006, it became the world's longest-running musical, beating the record previously held by Cats.

Les Misérables comes to the Norwich Theatre Royal between 16 February - 20 March, 2010. For more information and tickets, visit the Theatre Royal website.