POP star Robbie Williams set flashbulbs popping last night after turning up to watch his best friend perform in a hit musical.

The Angels singer was in Manchester for the opening night of We Will Rock You, the popular show based on the songs of rock legends Queen.

Williams' friend, actor Jonathan Wilkes, is starring in the show, which is embarking on a UK tour opening at the Palace Theatre.

Despite eschewing the red carpet for the venue's most discreet stage door, the former Take That star was spotted by hordes of waiting press and fans as he disembarked from a large black bus with the letters VIP written on the side.

Williams, dressed in a black jacket and grey scarf, declined to comment as he made his way through a sea of cameras and autograph books into the theatre.

TV presenter Ant McPartlin also attended the show along with stars from Coronation Street and Hollyoaks.

On learning that Williams was in attendance, McPartlin said: "I haven't seen him for a while, so I'm looking forward to seeing him."

Choreographer Arlene Phillips said: "Queen music lives for ever. You love the music, you love Freddie Mercury's voice, he had the most unusual voice.

"The musicianship, it's legendary music and I love working to it."

She added: "I love Robbie. I'm thrilled he's here and his best friend's in the show and he's very good."

Williams, who had been out of the spotlight since releasing his 2006 album Rudebox, recently returned home after spending time in the US.

Earlier this month he appeared in a Little Britain sketch for Comic Relief playing Candy Marie-Candy, a little girl with a fondness for pink ribbons.