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VARIETY OF MUSIC ON OFFER AT OUTDOOR CONCERT

FROM ELVIS TO PUCCINI
WITH LESLEY GARRETT, RICHARD SHELTON AND THE ROYAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA
 AT THE QUARRY, SHREWSBURY ON SATURDAY JULY 15TH 2006

Music enthusiasts can expect a real variety of tempos and styles when opera singer Lesley Garrett takes to the stage in Shrewsbury next month.

Lesley will be appearing with Richard Shelton who recently starred in Emmerdale and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at The Quarry on Saturday July 15 with a programme which will range from Elvis to Puccini.

Whether it is a well-known piece from a popular Puccini opera, a song from a West End musical or the stirring songs of the last night of the Proms, this accomplished opera singer will turn in a great performance with every number.

Lesley has never appeared in Shrewsbury before and her visit is part of a planned list of engagements around the country so that she can go and sing in new places with new audiences.

“I am really looking forward to visiting Shrewsbury. Singing outside is so exciting for me as there is such a wonderful atmosphere when people come with their picnics,” Lesley said.

But outside performances can have their challenges and to avoid any problems with sound Lesley always travels with her own sound system.

“When you are performing at an outdoor concert you need to create your own acoustics and you need a very serious PA system. The British weather can be unpredictable so the sound team have to be ready to cope with all conditions,” Lesley explained.

And it is not just the sound that needs careful planning it is also the wardrobe. For an evening such as the Shrewsbury concert Lesley says it will be a least a ‘four frock date’ and perhaps some other changes of outfit which could include designer gowns by leading names such as Vivienne Westwood who is a great favourite with the opera singer.

The build up to such a big evening is however ‘tried and tested’ and like many great artists, Lesley has her well organised routine.

“I usually go up the night before and then try and lie in the next morning as it is going to be a long day ahead. As soon as I am up it is out for a brisk walk and then a shower and use of steam which is critical for keeping the voice in good order.

“I then eat a good meal so it is well digested before the evening and find time to have my hair done. Next on the list is a rehearsal all afternoon followed by make up and into my first frock. I am always nervous in that time before I step onto the stage but if I am away from home I always find time to call my children at home to make sure they are happy and just to keep in touch,” Lesley explained.

And when the applause dies down and she steps off the stage Lesley says she feels ‘high as a kite’ after performing and it is at that point she finds time for her fans and makes sure she can chat to as many people as possible.

“At the end of the evening I hope the audience will go away with the feeling that they have heard music they love; music they have never heard before and that they want more of it,” Lesley added.

Tickets to see Lesley Garrett and Richard Shelton on stage with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra are available from the ticket hotline on 01603 660444 or online at www.imlconcerts.co.uk

WIN FREE TICKETS !!

We have two free pairs of tickets to be won.  To enter our prize draw, just answer the simple question below:-

In which popular series did Richard Shelton star?

CLICK HERE to e-mail us your answer.
 Please put "Lesley Garrett" as your subject and remember to include your name and address so that we can send the lucky winner their prize. 

The draw will take place on 5th. July 2006

Good luck !