Britney Spears’ infamous emotional breakdown will serve as the basis for the pop star’s 2009 tour around the world.

“Britney is well aware of what a roller coaster she has been on and she is determined that her recent life is reflected in the shows,” The Sun reports.

“She thought the best metaphor to use would be the circus. Fans get to travel with her through her fall from grace and her eventual rehabilitation.”

“The first act sees the miserable star run away to join the circus. This mimics her slide into unhinged behavior,” says the source.

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

Britney’s Circus World Tour begins in New Orleans on March 3.