So long, farewell as Fisher forced to quit Sound of Music tour

The 28-year-old, who shot to stardom in the BBC talent show How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria?, said her voice had undergone a radical change as a result of a throat condition.

She was expected to play Maria in Cardiff, Manchester, Newcastle and Wimbledon until the end of October in a touring production.

Fisher said: “After many months of battling with a throat condition, known as congenital sulcus vocalis, my vocal range has altered dramatically and it is with much regret that I have to withdraw from The Sound of Music as I no longer have the range to sing the part of Maria.

“My journey with this amazing show has been such a magical one and I am devastated that I am not able to close the tour.”

The star, who has previously appeared in the tour and took the lead role on stage at the London Palladium, said: “I have loved every minute of working with Andrew Lloyd Webber, (producer) David Ian and the cast and crew of The Sound of Music.”

In 2009, Fisher had to call off a 14-date Secret Love UK tour to have immediate surgery on her vocal cords.

Specialists in the US advised her to act after diagnosing congenital fusion anomalies. Doctors said it was a “miracle” she was able to have a singing career despite a throat condition which would have been present from birth.

The former call centre worker will be replaced by Verity Rushworth as Maria when the production opens there later this month.