Brian Conley and Linzi Hateley confirmed for Barnum tour

The national tour of Cameron Mackintosh and Chichester Festival Theatre's production of Barnum will open at Leicester Curve on 5 September 2014, it has been confirmed.

The tour will star Brian Conley in the title role, alongside Linzi Hateley as Chairy.

Cy Coleman's 1980 Broadway musical follows the life of Phineas T Barnum, America's "Greatest Showman". The score includes "Come Follow The Band", "The Colours Of My Life" and "There Is A Sucker Born Ev’ry Minute".

The revival, directed by Open Air Theatre's Timothy Sheader, was first seen at Chichester Festival Theatre’s temporary Theatre in the Park in July last year.

Brian Conley's recent West End credits include Hairspray and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. He was nominated ror an Olivier Award for playing American showman Al Jolson in Jolson at the Victoria Palace.

Linzi Hateley created the role of Mrs Banks in Mary Poppins on stage and was nominated for an Olivier Award for her performance as The Narrator in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. She most recently appeared in the National Theatre’s hit production of London Road, which is currently being adapted for the big screen.

After running in Leicester until 13 September, Barnum will visit: Bristol Hippodrome (16-27 September), Southend's Cliffs Pavilion (30 September-4 October), Wycombe Swan (7-11 October), New Wimbledon Theatre (14-18 October), Hull New Theatre (21-25 October), Edinburgh Playhouse (27 October-1 November), Palace Theatre, Manchester (4-15 November), His Majesty's, Aberdeen (18-22 November, Alhambra, Bradford (25-29 November), New Victoria, Woking (20-24 January 2015), Wolverhampton Grand (27-31 January), Nottingham Theatre Royal (3-14 February).

Further dates are still to be announced.