GET out your baggy trousers – Complete Madness are returning to Worcester.

Defining themselves as much more than a tribute band, the group are coming to the Swan Theatre on Saturday at 8pm as part of the Worcester Festival and, through live music and banter, will bring to life the story of ska music.

“We’re more than a covers band,” said vocalist Mark Keegan, who will lead his merry band of musicians in the show Ska Insania.

“We still do all the Madness classics but we’ve tweaked it a little and, in the second half of the show, we perform the best of the rest, the Specials, Bad Manners and the Selecter.”

The format must work as the lively show is proving popular in theatres across the UK.

“We came to Worcester two years ago and it was great. We sold out,” said Mr Keegan.

“The first half of the show is ideal for theatres. There’s a lot of banter and a lot of dialogue between songs, explaining where Madness came from.

“The costume changes correspond to the videos and when everyone is ready to get up and dance, we have all the other 2 Tone bands.

“It’s not just a tribute show. That’s the message we’re trying to get across and, I hope, as more people come and see it, it will spread.”

The real Madness, fronted by Suggs, formed in 1976 and continue to tour today. Some of their biggest hits include One Step Beyond, It Must Be Love, Baggy Trousers and House of Fun.

There is plenty of live music throughout the Worcester Festival, with free performances in the city centre from the likes of violinst Shulah Oliver and guitarist Martyn Addis.

On Friday, August 22, the eagerly awaited Worcester Music Festival – supported by but separate from this three-week extravaganza – begins. Over three days, more than 100 bands will perform in city pubs, clubs and cafes. For full listings go to worcestermusicfestival. co.uk.