As revealed during last night's Royal Variety Performance, Cilla the Musical will be heading into the West End following its UK tour next year, with Sheridan Smith as its leading lady.

Whilst London dates and the venue have yet to be announced, Smith's performance on TV last night certainly ramped up the anticipation.

Smith is no stranger to performing as Cilla as she portrayed the singer and TV personality in Jeff Pope's 2014 BAFTA award-winning ITV drama.

The musical adaptation, like the TV series, follows Cilla Blacks's rise to fame and features an incredible 60's score including her biggest hits: ‘Anyone Who Had A Heart’, ‘You're My World’, ‘Alfie’ an ‘Something Tells Me’.

The stage show is produced by Laurie Mansfield and Bill Kenwright, who also co-directs with Bob Tomson. It has design by Gary McCann, lighting by Nick Richings and sound by Dan Samson.

Watch this space, Besties!