The Phantom of the Opera composer Andrew Lloyd Webber has been diagnosed with prostate cancer, according to a statement released by his spokespeople.

“The condition is in its very early states,” the statement said. “Andrew is now undergoing treatment and expects to be fully back at work before the end of the year.”

Lloyd Webber recently announced plans for Love Never DIes, the long-awaited sequel to Phantom, which will begin performances at London’s Adelphi Theatre on February 20, 2010 and open on March 9.

One of the most successful composers ever, Lloyd Webber has composed many musicals, including Jesus Christ Superstar, Evita, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Song and Dance, Starlight Express, Aspects of Love, Sunset Boulevard, By Jeeves, The Beautiful Game, Whistle Down the Wind and The Woman in White.