by Chris Price

Aside from that cheeky smile, it is that big voice inside Brian Conley which made him the perfect pick for the role of Brother Love.

The 49-year-old is the master of ceremonies in Brother Love’s Travelling Salvation Show, which is taking the songs of Neil Diamond around the country, with a stop off in Kent.

Directed by Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood and co-starring Darren Day and Ben James-Ellis, the show is something completely new. In fact, Brian best describes it by listing what it is not.

Brian said: “It is not a biopic or the story of Neil Diamond’s life. It is not a musical either. Yes we are telling stories within the songs but it is very much a concert.

“It is a celebration of the music of one of the greatest singer-songwriters the world has ever known.

“Each song is a classic. He has always been a great live performer which means his songs are wonderful to sing. They are big and loud and even if you just like Neil a little bit you are going to have a wonderful evening.”

Performed in a big top tent, Brian is excited about the gospel feel the arena will create, similar to the travelling gospel shows in 1950s America.

However, he admitted that at first he was not sure about director Craig’s vision for the show but trusted him because of his award-winning tour of Chess last year.

“Craig broke all box office records and brought Chess back into the 21st century with its tour.

“When we had the list of songs for Brother Love I said “what’s this show gonna be Craig?” and he said “it’s all in my head love, so don’t you worry.”

“We’ve been rehearsing for a while now and it’s something great that he’s produced.”

Brother Love’s Travelling Salvation Show is at Leeds Castle from Tuesday, April 12 to Sunday, April 17.