A BOLTON singer is swapping the pop charts for musical theatre as he steps up to the stage in iconic Grease role.

Tom Parker may be better known as being one fifth of international boy band The Wanted but he has now joined a new gang.

The singer from Tonge Moor will be taking on his first ever theatrical role as Danny Zuko as the original West End production of the electrifying musical, Grease, lights up the UK once again as it embarks on a national tour.

And Tom's first appearance as the leather-jacket-wearing heart-throb will be very close to home as the tour opens at the Palace Theatre in Manchester on Friday, March 10, 2017. 

He: "I am delighted to be confirmed as Danny Zuko in the national tour of Grease.

"For David Ian Productions to give me this opportunity is a huge privilege. For the tour to start in Manchester is even more exciting for me, being born not too far down the road in Bolton!

"I look forward to seeing you at one of the shows, and here's to a long and successful 2017 in Grease!"

Tom amassed worldwide success with The Wanted, achieving two UK number ones and nine top 10 singles as well as four Billboard 100 singles.

An iconic movie and award-winning musical, Grease originally opened in the West End in 1993 where it enjoyed a hugely successful run of six years.

The show has since toured throughout the world playing to sell out audiences and breaking box office records everywhere, having been seen by over 12 million people in the UK alone.

It will be on at the Palace Theatre until March 25.