Viva la Divas as the dancer and the opera star unite (From Salisbury Journal)

Viva la Divas as the dancer and the opera star unite

9:26am Wednesday 9th May 2007 in The Big Interview By Anne Morris

TWO of the most admired British stars of opera and ballet, Welsh mezzo-soprano, Katherine Jenkins and prima ballerina, Darcey Bussell, have united for a touring show, Viva La Diva.

Directed by choreographer Kim Gavin, who has worked with pop stars such as Take That, the show has been billed as a homage to divas down the ages.

Former BBC Welsh choirgirl of the year, Katherine Jenkins was first discovered aged 12. She studied at the Royal Academy of Music, signing one of the biggest deals in classical recording history in 2004 and became the fastest-selling female opera singer since Maria Callas. Since then she has become the mascot of the Welsh rugby team.

Darcey Bussell, born in London, joined the Royal Ballet school at 13 and has danced with Sadler's Wells and the Royal Ballet at Covent Garden becoming a principal at the age of 20.

"Katherine's voice has an exceptional quality and I'm very much looking forward to combining our very different talents," says Darcey.

Katherine says: "I've admired Darcey since I was young, her movement and style are second to none and I'm thrilled to be working with her."

This amazing song-and-dance musical extravaganza will tour to Bournemouth International Centre on Friday, December 7.

Tickets are now on sale from the ticket line on 0870 111 3000.