ALEXANDRA Burke is to play the lead role of Rachel Marron when hit musical The Bodyguard arrives at The Mayflower theatre next year.

The musical’s UK tour opens at the Southampton theatre on February 12, 2015.

Alexandra said: "I couldn't be happier to be joining the tour and I'm excited to get started. Being on the theatre stage has brought me great happiness.

“It is an honour to have been asked to join the team and I look forward to creating new and long lasting memories with the cast."

Alexandra Burke rose to fame after winning the fifth series of The X Factor. Her debut number one single Hallelujah sold over one million copies in the UK, a first for a British female soloist.

Alexandra Burke will perform the role of Rachel Marron at all evening performances. At the matinee performances, the role will be played by Zoe Birkett.

Zoe Birkett is probably best known as the highest placing female contestant in ITV’s Pop Idol, 2002. Since then she has appeared in the West End productions of Priscilla Queen of the Desert and originated the female lead in Thriller Live.

Tickets: 02380 711811 or online at mayflower.org.uk

Ovation Restaurant bookings: 02380 711833