A north Norfolk performing arts school is set to welcome a chart-topping, piano-playing impressionist to their theatre as part of his national tour.

Classical pianist and impressionist, Alistair McGowan, will bring his critically acclaimed show to the Auden Theatre, at Gresham's School.

The tour, running from Thursday, July 19, to Friday, August 24, will see him perform at the venue in Holt on Saturday, August 18.

Mr McGowan said: 'This tour is a whole new way of presenting classical piano music - possibly, the first classical piano recital to intersperse romantic music with a little comedy.

'I'd be delighted if, as well as fans of classical music, we were able to encourage people who may not know much about classical piano to come and enjoy some of the incredible music written, and still being written,for the piano.

'As well as having the chance to share my own versions of the stories of composers and the extraordinary music they write, I simply can't have a room full of people and not have some fun with my favourite impressions too.

'It should be the first show in which you can hear Harry Kane alongside the music of George Gershwin; Jacob Rees Mogg between pieces by Edvard Grieg.'

He added: 'As well as being light-hearted, I hope these shows introduce people to some wonderfully romantic music and demonstrate to anyone who harbours a secret ambition to take up music, that it really is never too late.'

Mr McGowan is best known for his BAFTA-winning comedy show, The Big Impression, and has also released a chart-topping debut classical record, titled Alistair McGowan, The Piano Album, and appeared in a impressions show on Sky One, The Week That Wasn't.

He reignited his passion for piano in his late 40s, after not playing since he was a young boy.

And after learning to play some of his favourite music, he recorded a classical piano album just three years after returning to the instrument.

Wendy Metcalfe, Auden Theatre administrator, said: 'We are looking forward to receiving Alistair McGowan.'

She added: 'Tickets are £16 - please visit the Auden Theatre website or phone the box office on 01263 713444.'

For a full list of tour dates, see Alistair McGowan's website.