THE Riverfront Theatre, Newport's sparkling jewel on the banks of the Usk, threw open its doors in spectacular style.

On Wednesday they were at the Royal Albert Hall, on Thursday they played in Spain, but last night the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra joined Welsh star Katherine Jenkins in raising the roof of the Riverfront.

Mayor Paul Cockeram told a packed concert hall: "Newport has needed a facility such as this for many years. It's a theatre accessible to everyone that can provide a host of activities and events, and improve the lives of everyone through the medium of the arts."

Coloured lights played on the tiled exterior of the controversial £16.5m building as guests arrived to look round a subterranean gallery set to house the medieval ship which was discovered during construction.

Welsh soprano Katherine Jenkins thrilled the 450 guests with a variety of pieces, that included showtunes, modern favourites and opera classics.

The crowd roared for an encore as she took a bow with the Greater Gwent Youth Choir and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

The guests, who included many councillors who retired in June, then filed onto the riverside walkway for a fireworks display.

Darius James, of Newport-based Independent Ballet Wales, said: "It was a great evening. This is fantastic for Newport and I'm very relieved we've finally got it. I can't wait to perform here."

Alan Perry, 73, of Old Roman Road, Langstone, said: "The performance was excellent. At last Newport has got a theatre to be proud of. I'll be visiting again."

Chris Freegard, managing director of the council, said: "This is the first of many high quality successes that are coming to our city."