Rhydian Roberts is the 27-year-old operatic singer who shot to fame on the fourth series of the X-Factor.

After coming second, the Welshman has released two bestselling albums and toured the UK with his bombastic baritone.

He’s recently been announced as one of the cast members for Jeff Wayne’s The War Of The Worlds – Alive On Stage, along with Atomic Kitten’s Liz McClarnon and Jason Donovan.

The show is coming to the Brighton Centre on Thursday, December 16 and Friday, December 17.

Call 0844 8471515 or visit www.brightoncentre.co.uk

Is there a performer who made you think “I want to do that”?

I think my desire to perform has been with me since birth. My main inspiration, though, came from theatre, watching roles such as the Phantom in The Phantom Of The Opera.

Do you remember the first record you bought – what was it, and where did you buy it?

Yes – it was Deeply Dippy by Right Said Fred! I bought it in a motorway services on the way back from East Sussex.

It was great. The B-side was I’m Too Sexy.

Tell us about any guilty pleasures lurking in your CD or film collections – something you know is a bit naff but you can’t help yourself.

I own a copy of Ali G In Da House. I love that film. When it comes to music, Chris de Burgh or any 1980s pop for that matter!

Do you have a favourite film?

Crocodile Dundee. I love the opening title music.

I think Mick Dundee is the coolest dude ever and always wanted to be like him ... that was until they made Crocodile 3!

Is there a TV programme couldn’t you live without?

I love Masterchef, Have I Got News For You and Friday Night With Jonathan Ross, but I’ll guess I’ll have to get used to not living with that last one very shortly.

Do you have a favourite album?

My favourite albums are It’s Only Life by John Bucchino, Joshua Tree by U2 and Moseley Shoals by Ocean Colour Scene. When it comes to classical music, it has to be...ummm...

O Fortuna by Rhydian.

What are you reading at the moment?

The Bible. It’s hardcore.

Do you have a favourite book?

I love Captain Corelli’s Mandolin because I love the story and Kefalonia [in Greece, where Louis de Bernières’ novel is set]. Plus, it’s one of the few books I’ve actually finished.

Is there a live music or theatre experience that stays in your memory?

The premiere of Love Never Dies [sequel to The Phantom Of The Opera] was a great experience.

The War Of The Worlds – Alive On Stage. Tell us a little about the character you play in the production… He’s called Parson Nathaniel and was played by Thin Lizzy’s Phil Lynott on the original album, and he’s been played onstage by Russell Watson, amongst others. He is a parson from the Victorian era, but following the invasion of Earth, he has lost his faith in God, and believes the Martians are the Devil. It’s a really meaty role and a big sing. I also die a horrible death!

Is it odd to think you’ll be working alongside a hologram of a Welsh icon in the shape of Richard Burton?

I can’t wait. The hologram is incredibly lifelike and haunting and stands 11ft high, hovering over the stage. It’s like no other show, in truth, as it has a mix of some of the best special effects ever seen on stage, including a 35ft animatronic Martian fighting machine firing heat rays at the audience!

Have you had a chance to meet the other cast members yet?

Yes, I knew Jason Donovan already and was thrilled when I learned he was in it.

Atomic Kitten’s Liz McClarnon plays Beth, my wife. She is such good fun to be around, and beautiful too. Can’t wait to tour with them.