Jeff Wayne's War Of The Worlds comes to Motorpoint Arena, Nottingham, with cast including Kevin Clifton, Claire Richards and Duncan James

An all-star cast brings to life the latest version of the sci-fi masterpiece, War Of The Worlds at Nottingham’s Motorpoint Arena.

Kevin Clifton, Claire Richards, Duncan James and Justin Hayward star in the show ­— the opening night of the new tour ­— on Wednesday, while Liam Neeson appears in a 3D hologram as The Journalist.

Based on HG Wells’ dark Victorian tale, and with a world-famous soundtrack, it is a first-person narrative of a conflict between humans.

Now in its 16th touring year, the production features a full live on-stage orchestra and special effects, including the iconic three-tonne, 30ft martian fighting machine firing real-flame heat rays at the audience.

Strictly Come Dancing’s Kevin Clifton stars at The Artilleryman.

Joining him on stage are Blue’s Duncan James as Parson Nathaniel, Steps’ Claire Richards (The Parson’s Wife) Inglorious’ Nathan James (The Voice of Humanity) and Moody Blues’ guitarist Justin Hayward (The Sung Thoughts of The Journalist).

Duncan James said: “I have always been a fan of Jeff Wayne and to get to work with such a legend is a dream come true, and I am thrilled to work alongside an incredible cast. I honestly cannot wait to be back on the road and performing again.”

Nathan James said: “I am so excited to be back touring with Jeff Wayne’s Musical Version of The War of The Worlds as The Voice of Humanity. I had so much fun on the last tour and it’s a real honour to know Jeff enjoyed my version of “Thunder Child” enough to bring me back again.

"Last time I couldn’t believe my luck and this time is no different. 43 years on and this double album still remains way ahead of its time and is still bringing so much joy.

"I can’t wait to perform this wonderful album again, to feel the heat of the pyrotechnics on my epic leather coat and to be back in these incredible venues.”

Justin Hayward said: “I’m very happy to be back as part of The War of the World’s family, this time with Jeff’s production The Life Begins Again tour.

"Wherever I go in the world, Forever Autumn, along with Nights In White Satin, is one of the songs that people know and love, and as a singer it’s a joy to perform.

"This production is sure to be spectacular, and the music as wonderful as ever. I’m looking forward to it all very much”

It is composed and conducted by Jeff Wayne in a soundtrack that includes the iconic Eve Of The War.