Robbie Williams’ forthcoming tour is inspired by "classic old musicals".
The ‘Candy’ hitmaker’s ‘Swing Both Ways Live’ shows kick off in Budapest in two weeks time, and he has promised something "very special" for the 46 European shows.
He said: "This ‘Swings Both Ways’ tour is very different from any previous Robbie Williams tour, and I think it’s going to be very special.
"When I was young the television companies in the UK saw fit to broadcast replay after replay after replay of all the classic old musicals. I think most kids my age were bored and turned off by things like that, but I wasn’t. I was engrossed in it all, lost in the magic of the glamour, and entranced by the craftsmanship of those times."
And the 40-year-old singer went on to suggest the shows will have a "variety" feel to them.
He added: "I want this to be a show that gives you the same feeling that I used to have at my grandma’s on a Saturday night, watching the ‘Morecambe & Wise Show’ on TV: a show with variety and lots of showbusiness moments. I know my jazz hands are going to be so tired after this tour. I intend to do my very best to ensure that every one of you is heavily entertained."
The shows will see Robbie perform tracks from last year’s ‘Swing Both Ways’ album and 2001’s ‘Swing When You’re Winning’ backed by a classic big band and eight dancers, and joined by a number of special guests, including his father Pete Conway.
The ‘Let Me Entertain You’ hitmaker has also enlisted West End choreographer Alistair David to work alongside his longtime show producer Lee Lodge to help put the gigs together.
Robbie Williams reveals tour inspiration
