Confirmed: Des O'Connor to Star as The Wizard in THE WIZARD OF OZ from May 22; Show to Close in September

Following a staggering 1,200+ solo appearances at the London Palladium, Des O'Connor is set to star at the world renowned venue for the very first time in a stage musical. He will take over the iconic role of The Wizard in Andrew Lloyd Webber's reimagining of THE WIZARD OF OZ, presented by Bill Kenwright and The Really Useful Group, from Tuesday 22 May to the show's final season, booking through 2 September.

Star of stage, screen and music, Des was awarded the CBE in 2008 for his services to Entertainment and Broadcasting and is widely regarded as one of the the UK's best loved and most respected stars.

On stage, Des has appeared at the MGM Grand Las Vegas, The Sydney Opera House and over 1,000 times at the London Palladium. He made his West-End debut playing the multiple roles of ‘Older Bobby' and ‘Phil - Bobby's Dad' in DREAMBOATS AND PETTICOATS.

Since his first TV appearance in 1963 he has starred in his own shows for over 45 years - longer than anyone else anywhere in the world.

He is also a music and recording artist, having produced no less than 36 albums, selling over 16 million copies to date, and spending a staggering 117 weeks in the top ten of the charts.