The surreal and bizarre world of the Tiger Lillies is heading to Burnley.

We were given a glimpse into the band’s parallel universe by founder Martyn Jacques.

IMAGINE a theatre show designed by Tim Burton, directed by David Lynch and co-written by the League of Gentlemen.

Throw in a touch of opera, some rock music and a heavy dash of burlesque-style cabaret and you’re getting somewhere near a typical night out with the Tiger Lillies.

For 20 years the trio have been bringing their own form of comedy madness to theatre audiences around the world — and soon it will be Burnley’s turn.

“Over the years I think a little weirdness has become fashionable,” said Martyn Jacques, the driving force behind the group.

“As a result there are more people who get what we do.

"Certainly younger audiences get it straight away. There’s even a danger we might become trendy.”

As part of their Burnley show, the Tiger Lillies will be presenting songs from their own award-winning West End show Shockheaded Peter, based on a German children’s story.

“For us it is all about being creative,” said Martyn.

“We don’t produce shows for accountants, they are done for artistic reasons.

“We just want an audience to have fun. It might get a little dark at times but the aim is always to entertain.”

For all their success in the West End with Shockheaded Peter, the Tiger Lillies are more well-known abroad than in the UK.

“There is such a visual element to the show and that does have an appeal with European audiences,” said Martyn.

“We also have played in America at Hallowee’en, which was an amazing experience.”

All three members of the Tiger Lillies are very much in demand for their creative input for other shows and spectacles.

“We’ve been involved in a number of productions either as performers or on the creative side.

"We’ve even been involved in a major circus show in Berlin,” said Martyn.

“Our show is certainly different from many others but I think all first-time audiences are pleasantly surprised and then they keep coming back for more.”

* The Tiger Lillies are at Burnley Mechanics on Thursday, April 1. For tickets call box office on 01282 664 400.