LES Dennis is set to follow in the footsteps of Ken Dodd.
The 70-year-old Liverpool-born stand up comedian, game show host and actor will play Malvolio in Twelfth Night at Shakespeare North in June.
It is the role Sir Ken played to great acclaim at the Liverpool Playhouse in 1971.
Les told the Globe that he is 'tickled' to take on the role which is a personal and professional dream come true for him.
He said: "Ever since I went to Stratford-Upon-Avon with the school and saw it I have always wanted to do it.
"The great Doddy famously played the part and the fact that Shakespeare North Playhouse have a Ken Dodd Performance Garden through the support of Lady Anne and the Sir Ken Dodd Foundation is an added bonus."
Shakespeare North Playhouse say they are 'equally thrilled' about this exciting new production with the company Not Too Tame , who are based in Warrington and last collaborated on a hit version of A Midsummer Night's Dream.
A spokesperson for Shakespeare North says the production is a contemporary revamp 'with a dose of riffs, riffs and riotous partying.'
"Prepare to be transported into a world where the stage is set, the music is pumping and love takes centre stage as the ultimate headliner."
And, don't forget Les making his full Shakespearean debut ... by Jove!
Twelfth Night is at Shakespeare North Playhouse From June 7 to 29.
Tickets are from the box office on 0151 433 7156.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here