Nathan Lane (left) is set to star in a film remake of The Producers

Oscar, who replaced Lane on Broadway, will take over on 10 January, two days after the end of Lane's run in London.

Oscar began as an understudy, but took over the part full time in New York after British actor Henry Goodman was sacked from the show in April 2002.

The show, which debuted in London in November, is tipped to win best musical at the Evening Standard theatre awards.

Oscar frequently covered for Nathan Lane in the Broadway production, while Lane was recovering from vocal problems.

His performance, as Broadway impresario Bialystock, was described as "lovably rascally" by the New York Post.

Comedy star Lee Evans plays accountant Leo Bloom

The Producers began as a 1968 Mel Brooks movie before being adapted for the stage and winning a record 12 Tony Awards in 2001.

The London production currently stars Tony winner Lane and British comedian Lee Evans, who replaced Broadway's Matthew Broderick in the role of timid accountant Leo Bloom.

The show received a standing ovation at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, when it opened on 9 November.

Lane was a last minute replacement in the West End production after Richard Dreyfuss dropped out due to injuries that made it difficult "to fulfil the rigours of the role".