PIANIST and singer-songwriter Ben Folds is to perform in Ipswich, it was announced today.

PIANIST and singer-songwriter Ben Folds is to perform in Ipswich, it was announced today.

The former frontman of Ben Folds Five is to play the town's Regent Theatre on Saturday December 1 at 7.30pm.

Theatre manager David Mansfield said: “This is a brilliant addition to our autumn programme and we are delighted to announce Ben Folds will be performing at the Regent in December.

“Ben Folds is currently only scheduled to be doing two solo dates in the UK - one at London's Shepherds Bush Empire and the other here in Ipswich. Plus Ben's new album is due out later this month so we are anticipating a high demand for tickets.

“His music is evocative of artists such as Joe Jackson and Sir Elton John, with an added edge and bold infusion of energy and wit.”

Due to artistic differences, Ben Folds Five broke up in 2000, and Ben's solo album, Rockin' the Suburb was released in 2001, with Ben playing most of the instruments.

A year later, he released a live album, Ben Folds Live, and followed it up with three EPs. In 2005, his latest solo work, Songs for Silverman, was released to critical acclaim.

Ben Folds is currently recording his next album Way To Normal due for release later this month.

Tickets are £23.50 and go on sale for Ben Folds on Friday September 19. To book call the box office on 01473 433100.