Britney Spears to play Cinderella

Britney Spears is set to star as Cinderella in a London pantomime. The 'Piece of Me' hitmaker has reportedly been offered £500,000 to take the title role in a musical adaptation of the classic fairytale at the London Palladium for five weeks over the Christmas period. A source said: "It is very much based on the traditional Cinderella, with a few twists, Britney will feature and maybe sing a song or two - but the rest of the cast will carry the burden. There will be some big name co-stars." While "everyone is confident" the 34-year-old pop star will sign on for the production, it seems she wasn't the first choice as both Kim Kardashian West and Kylie Minogue are said to have already turned down the role. The source added to the Sunday People newspaper: "Britney was one of a number of big name stars who were approached - you name a female star they were approached - but the others didn't work out and they have opted for her." But production bosses are confident Britney will be a huge draw for audiences. The source said: "She is a still huge name who is much-loved by British fans - she will definitely attract people to come along and see her. A star of her standing isn't cheap - but she will be worth every penny if she can attract sell-out audiences. "Everyone is very excited - It is all about bums on seats and creating a buzz. 'Cinderella' is going to be mega - definitely the show to attend in London this winter."