A LEGENDARY guitarist is busy hardening his fingertips in preparation for a magical evening of music.

Queen’s Brian May is once again teaming up with singing sensation Kerry Ellis for the Born Free tour, which promises an intimate set of acoustic music.

Their appearance at Malvern Theatres on Friday, June 28 will place stripped down versions of Queen classics alongside a number of Brian and Kerry’s personal favourite songs.

Not only will it provide a rare opportunity to witness one of the world’s greatest ever guitar players performing up close and personal, it will also showcase Kerry’s uniquely powerful vocal delivery.

The live music arena still excites May after more than 40 years in the industry.

“Although life has taken me into so many new areas recently, music is still what makes me tick - the greatest joy. And Ms Ellis is the perfect band member.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to bring this show to a wider audience. I’m already working on hardening up the finger ends.”

While away from their musical partnership, Kerry is perhaps best known as the creator of the role of Meat in We Will Rock You and starring as the Green Witch in the musical Wicked either side of the pond.

She added: “I am so excited to be taking Born Free out again with Brian, the audience reactions were so special on the first tour I can't wait to see what happens next.

“I'm so fortunate to love what I do and to able to perform for a good cause, whilst spreading the Born Free word, is even better.”

The gig is held in aid of the Born Free Foundation, which works to protect and conserve threatened species around the world, particularly Africa’s magnificent Lions.

Kerry and Brian were moved by the charity’s work after a visit to the Shamwari game reserve and rescue centre in South Africa.

Tickets are £39.

For more information and tickets, call the box office on 01684 892 277 or go to malvern-theatres.co.uk.