Forces sweetheart comes to Bath

Hayley Westenra during the launch of the 2009 Poppy Appeal in London

Singing sensation Hayley Westenra, Britain's new Forces sweetheart, is coming to Bath.

The New Zealander will top the bill at this year's big Christmas show at the Bath Forum on Saturday, 12 December, 2009.

Produced by Grenville Jones, other guests include his mixed-voice choir, THE Bath Chorus, and the award-winning Zenith Youth Theatre Group.

Miss Westenra will sing many of her popular numbers and will join with the choir for a magical finale.

Hayley Westenra was still only 16 when she released her debut international CD, Pure.

It rapidly became the fastest-selling debut album from a classical artist, and reached the Top 10 of the pop charts in 11 countries - it was the best selling classical album of the 21st Century.

She performed in Bath three years ago at Christmas when all 1500 seats sold out.

'Amazing voice'

Grenville Jones has staged many concerts at the Bath Forum. He said: "She has an amazing pure soprano voice and this will be a special evening."

Grenville started THE Bath Chorus in January after standing down as conductor of the Silver Ring Choir.

Over 120 people went to the first open night and there will be 100 singers on stage on December 12th.

They are already making a big impact on the local music scene and have been asked to sing at Wells Cathedral in February, supporting Help for Heroes.

Grenville also leads The City of Bath Male Choir, who won a national following on the BBC's Last Choir Standing.

The Zenith Youth Theatre Group is a theatrical society for all young people aged between 13 and 21 - members come from all around Bath and have won numerous awards for their performances.

Tickets for the Christmas show are available on 01225 463362 or check out the Bath Festivals website for more information.