Britney Spears will be channelling her messy meltdown in an array of spectacular metaphors for her upcoming tour, according to insiders.

The pop princess - who recently received an underwhelming reception for her comeback performances in Europe and the US - is said to be gearing up to take the world by storm in a new three-act show.

An insider tells The Sun, “The first act sees the miserable star run away to join the circus. This mirrors her slide into unhinged behaviour.

“Her disturbing antics while suffering her meltdown are the focus of the second act, which takes place in the circus.

“Brit is seen having fun in this crazy world and falling in love with a circus freak.

“The final act focuses on Britney’s salvation. She manages to prize herself away from the clutches of the circus to be reunited with her friends and family.”

The tour kicks off on March 3 in New Orleans, moving across the US and finally making its way to the UK on June 3 at London’s O2.

See Britney celebrate her 27th birthday below