King of improvisational comedy Ross Noble will make his musical theatre debut in the 2015 UK Tour of The Producers.

Noble joins the cast of The Producers from Monday 18 May as pigeon-loving Franz Liebkind, brought on board by Max Bialystok and Leo Bloom (Jason Manford) to help them in their plot to put on the worst musical of all time.

Based on Mel Brooks’ beloved Academy Award winning movie, The Producers has taken Broadway and the West End by storm, winning a record-breaking 12 Tony Awards and 3 Olivier Awards; it opens its UK tour in March 2015.

Noble said of his role; “I am very excited about appearing in The Producers. 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!”

Master surrealist Ross Noble has been performing as a stand-up comedian since the age of 15. His countless accolades include Time Out award winner for best live stand-up, Barry Award winner, Manchester Evening News Theatre Award, Perrier Award nominee and several Chortle Awards. Unveiling a new sell-out show every year for the last 15 years Ross is one of the most successful comedians of our time exuding an onstage presence unlike any other. Ross’ worldwide travel as a stand-up was the subject of his own BBC Radio 4 programmes Ross Noble Goes Global and Ross Noble On and series FreeWheeling on Dave earlier this year. He joins The Producers fresh from his UK and Australian tour Tangentleman.

Jason Manford said of the news; "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!"

Louie Spence plays Carmen Ghia until Saturday 2 May. Further casting to be announced.

Tour details at www.theproducersmusical.co.uk