Morrissey, apparently hellbent on destroying his legacy, is not taking part. Nor is lead guitarist Johnny Marr. UPDATE: Neither is Andy Rourke, as it happens.

Classically Smiths - as the group is known - will see Andy Rourke, Mike Joyce, and Craig Gannon sharing the stage once more. While Joyce was a member from (nearly) the beginning, Gannon is best known for a short stint as rhythm guitarist in 1986.

As the Manchester Evening News report, the reunion(ish) will feature as-yet-unnamed guest vocalists performing alongside the erstwhile Smiths members and the accompanying orchestra. It'll apparently be an "epic production" with promises of big hits and fan favourites aplenty.

"I’m massively excited to be playing with Andy and Craig again, but introducing a full orchestra into the mix takes this to another level," says Joyce to the MEN. "There’ll be Smiths classics in the set, but I can’t wait to play the songs that have never been heard live before. With the addition of an orchestra, it will sound as totally unique as it will immense. I’m really looking forward to fans being able to hear the songs in a way they’ve never been heard before, either on record or live. On the stage, or out front, this is going to be quite an experience for us all."

Classically Smiths will kick their shows off at the O2 Apollo in their home city, before heading to London and Edinburgh.