Hear'Say spilt up a year ago

The ex-popstar from Cardiff, who was chosen out of 3,000 hopefuls on an ITV talent show to form the band, will be taking the lead role in the production.

Noel, 23, from Caerau in the city, has been out of the spotlight for more than a year since the made-for-TV band split.

A war of words between its members led to the break up - despite them reaching number one with their first single Pure and Simple.

Sexuality

The musical Fame follows the fortunes of a group of young people trying to make it at New York's High School for the Performing Arts.

Based on the 70s American TV show, Noel will play aspiring actor, Nick Piazza, who starts the musical confused about his sexuality but ends up having a romance with fellow actress Serena Katz.

I feel very lucky and honoured but I'm a bit scared. I'll try to play it cool Noel Sullivan

An insider on the production said: "Noel has the exactly right qualities for the part of Nick - and he's a talented actor as well as singer.

"He's very enthusiastic about the role and we're looking forward to having him here."

Noel said he was looking forward to the challenge.

He said: "I feel very lucky and honoured but I'm a bit scared. I'll try to play it cool."

Noel has been out of the spotlight ever since Hearsay split up a year ago.

In February 2002 member Kym Marsh left the band, and the remaining members were then criticised when, after an open audition, they chose a dancer to replace her who they already knew.

The reality-tv show Popstars created Hear'Say

Band-member Danny Foster said insults from members of the public in the street and excessive cynicism also helped hasten the split.

Former Hear'Say singer Myleene Klass has now landed a seven-figure deal with a classical music record label.

And Kym Marsh has had some success with her first solo single.

Noel is now hopeful that he can follow suit.