GET ready for the Full Monty, coming to the Palace Theatre next month, brought to you by the Little Theatre Company.

Based on the hit cult film of the same name, it's a show that’s full of genuine emotion, engaging melodies, and one of the most highly-anticipated closing numbers of any production!

Six unemployed steelworkers are low on both cash and prospects. While spying on their wives at a ‘girls’ night out’, the guys realise just how lucrative the life of a stripper can be.

Jealous and out-of-work, the group of lovable misfits devise a daring and titillating way to make some quick cash and get back on their feet.

Whilst preparing for this performance of a lifetime, the men find themselves exposed physically and emotionally so must learn to conquer their fears and self-consciousness, overcome prejudices and find strength in each other.

Featuring a raucous mix of razor-sharp humour and toe-tapping music, this heart-warming, upbeat comedy is a must for anyone!

Theatrical stalwart and West-End leading man, Scott M. Bourne - previously known for his headlining performance as Mufasa in London’s The Lion King, as well as a cheeky turn in The Real Monty on tour - is delighted to be returning to the stage as Noah “Horse” T. Simmons in this production.

Echo: Scott M Bourne

He said: “Well, I have to say, I thought my stripping days were over! It's been 20 years since I got my kit off on stage and I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining this great cast and to be doing it all over again.

“They say, 'once a performer, always a performer’. It never leaves you. The excitement, buzz and the exhilaration you get from being in such a high octane thrill-ride of a show like ‘The Full Monty’ - I haven't experienced anything like it since ‘Starlight Express’ all those years ago.

“I’m delighted to have been given this amazing opportunity to strut my 'funky chicken' again.”

Little Theatre Company will celebrate its 70th anniversary in 2019. It has a reputation for staging bold and award-winning performances and many members have gone on to forge successful careers in theatre and entertainment, including company president Gemma Craven, Lee Mead and Mark Cotgrove aka jazz musician Snowboy.

The Full Monty runs at the theatre in London Road, Westcliff from Wednesday May 16 Saturday May 19.

Tickets are £19 - £21 (evenings) and £16 - £18 (matinees), including a £1 booking fee, available now from the Southend Theatres Box Office on 01702 351135 and southendtheatres.org.uk.

Evening performances are at 7.30pm, plus two 2.30pm matinees on Thursday and Saturday.