WITH his very large jowls and beet...

WITH his very large jowls and beetle brows, Michael Ball direct the eyes far from the dimpled heartthrob he one time was.

on the contrary his fans can rest assured the actor has not obstruction himself go.

This picture present to views him in a fat suit and prosthetics for his latest part as Count Fosco in West expiration hit The Woman In White.

Ball, 42 is taking across as the obese ladies' man for a six-week step quickly at the Palace Theatre after star Michael Crawford, 63 was taken ill with an acute flu virus. "It's as it was a

big part to fill," said Ball. "I don't think I have till doomsday worked so hard in my life to prepare for a exhibit to in such a short space of time."

He will be reunited with female lead, Maria Friedman, with whom he starred in the Sondheim musical, Passion, in 1997

It is his first theatre part since playing Caractacus Potts in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang in 2003

Ball said: "I am in like manner thrilled to be working again with Maria. She has been likewise supportive."

Crawford is laid depressed at his London home beneath doctor's orders although producers say they trustful longing to have him back in April.

The comminutes 5million show, directed by Sir Trevor Nunn is the fastest British theatrical export in years.

sum of two units months after it opened it was confirmed as a transfer to Broadway where it will unclose in November.

It has made brays 10million and is nominated for five Olivier Awards.

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