PAUL Nicholas hasn't had a moment to himself for the past few months -- and he's loving every minute of it.

Having spent Christmas in pantomime in Windsor he went straight from searching for Aladdin's magic lamp to rehearsals for a major revival of one of the most famous musicals of all time.

Paul will play the lead in Fiddler On The Roof -- the role made famous by Topol -- which premieres at Blackpool's Grand Theatre on Thursday, February 13 before embarking on a six-month national tour.

"This is something I've wanted to do for some time and I'm really looking forward to it," said Paul, who has appeared in some of the most successful musicals of recent years.

"It's an extensive tour and goes to all the major theatres, which takes us to the end of July.

"Then it will continue to tour or it might even go into the West End."

As an actor and singer, Paul Nicholas has built up a reputation on both stage and television.

But it is the musical which is closest to his heart.

"That's how I started and it has been my bread and butter," he said.

"I have been lucky to have had success on TV but to me it's a little too hit-and-miss."

The prospect of spending a minimum of five months on the road with Fiddler On The Roof doesn't appear to be a problem for Paul.

"Actually, I enjoy touring," he said. "Of course it would be nice to just perform in the West End so that you could stay at home while you do it, but a tour means you can take a show to different audiences.

"It stops you and the show from getting stale."

Paul feels privileged to have been asked to star in Fiddler on the Roof.

"It's a show which people have a lot of affection for," he said.

Many people will remember the film version with Topol in the title role.

"I am not going to do an impression of Topol," he said.

"Don't get me wrong, he was brilliant in the role and there are elements of his performance which has shown me how the character should be played.

"But I hope to bring a little bit of my personality into the show too."

Fiddler on the Roof at Blackpool's Grand Theatre runs from Thursday, February 13 to Saturday, February 22. Details from the box office on 01253 290190.