Will Young debuts on stage in 'The Vortex'

Pop idol Will Young is set to make his professional theatre debut early next year in Noel Coward's play The Vortex.

The singer will portray Nicky Lancaster, a musician whose girlfriend runs off with his mother's young lover.

Speaking to Whatsonstage.com, Young commented: "I'm really excited to be involved in this project."

Although the experience will be a new one, the star did attend a postgraduate course in performing arts before leaving to pursue his music career. "I'm sure it will be a fairly daunting experience initially, but I want to be able to grow and learn more in this field so I'll continue to enjoy what I do and also offer something new to my fans," he added.

Director Jo Combes spoke glowingly of the star, saying: "Will did a stunning audition, and I am really excited about what he will bring to the character and the production."

Staged at Manchester’s Royal Exchange Theatre, the production's run will begin on January 17, 2007.