The news comes as a surprise as it is just three years since George Michael announced he was quitting touring - billing his two shows at Earl’s Court in August 2008 as The Final Two – and this will be his only third solo tour proper in his 30 year career.

George Michael said he had been inspired by Tony Bennett and that he will rework and rearrange some of his catalogue – including tracks never before performed live – as well as cover some artists who have influenced him for the orchestra. The gigs will take place at specially selected venues such as the Royal Opera House, Prague’s State Opera House and Paris’ Palais Garnier.

Countries on the tour include Denmark, Switzerland, France, Italy, Spain, Belgium, Germany, The Netherlands, Ireland and the UK, where as well as the Royal Opera House he will perform at Cardiff International Arena, Liverpool Echo Arena, Sheffield Motorpoint Arena, Newcastle Telewest Arena, Glasgow SECC, Birmingham LG Arena and Manchester MEN Arena.

George Michael – who said he is also working on a related new album – explained, “I feel really re-energised after my recent troubles. I am not interested in repeating my former successes. At this stage in life I feel there are two areas I can explore further, one is dance music and the other is my voice. Once you stop thinking about the charts, authenticity is what you strive for. I feel I have so much time to make up for.”

Asked whether he had ever dreamed of performing at the Royal Opera House, George Michael said,“Nobody dreams of this really. If you do, you’ll be disappointed.”