WELSH singing sensation Katherine Jenkins will be the star performer at the opening night of Newport's Riverfront theatre and arts centre.

The former school- teacher recently signed the largest recording deal in UK classical recording history and became the fastest-selling female opera singer since Maria Callas when her debut album was released last month.

The 23-year-old shot to fame as the official mascot of the Welsh rugby team, performing before 70,000 fans at the Millennium Stadium during the Six Nations tournament.

The mezzo-soprano will be joined by the highly regarded Bafta-winning composer and conductor Carl Davis, in another major coup for organisers for the opening night on Saturday, October 23.

Carl Davis has composed scores for films such as the French Lieutenant's Woman, Up Pompeii and Ken Russell's The Rainbow.

The American-born composer has also worked on television scores including Pride and Prejudice, the World at War and That Was The Week That Was, and carved out a successful career.

This year Carl, who is married to actress Jean Boht, (best known for her role as Ma Boswell in the comedy Bread) received a Bafta Special Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to film and television.

Riverfront marketing manager Michelle Perez said: "I am really looking forward to the opening. There are some really positive things going on." Also in the pipeline for the theatre's opening season is a high-profile pantomime production with a host of big names.

A Riverfront logo to market the new theatre is also close to completion.