Ross Noble makes musical theatre debut in The Producers

Comedian Ross Noble will make his musical theatre debut in next year's UK tour of The Producers.

Noble, known for his surrealist improvisations, will play pigeon keeper Franz Liebkind in the production, which stars fellow comedian Jason Manford as Leo Bloom. Louie Spence will play Carmen Ghia until 2 May.

"I am a huge fan of the show and for anyone who loves comedy, the chance to perform the work of Mel Brooks is amazing," said Noble, who has won many awards for his comedy.

Adapted from Brooks' 1967 film, The Producers centres on New York producer Max Bialystock, who recruits timid accountant Leo Bloom to help him pull off Broadway's greatest scam. Together they aim to produce the worst show ever and run away to Rio with millions, but they learn that showbusiness can always find a way to kick you in the teeth.

Manford, who has previously appeared on stage in Sweeney Todd, said: "Ross is one of the most exciting and inventive comedians the UK has produced, he is one of those rare breed of comics who simply has funny bones. It's a genius bit of casting."

The Producers opens at the Churchill Theatre, Bromley from 6 to 14 March 2015, before visiting venues including Manchester, Edinburgh, Milton Keynes, Birmingham, Bristol, Liverpool, Leeds, Glasgow and Dublin.

Directed by Matthew White (Top Hat), the tour is produced by Adam Spiegel. Further casting is still to be announced.