Darius Campbell to Take Starring Role in Carmen at The O2

Exclusive Performance for One Show Only

LONDON, April 14, 2010 - Darius Campbell has announced he will be performing in The O2's first
opera, Raymond Gubbay's spectacular production of Carmen. This will be
Darius' first major operatic role since he won ITV's Popstar to Operastar.
Darius will undertake the principal role of Escamillo on Sunday 23rd May at
2.30pm, whose world famous aria Song of the Toreador he sang in Popstar to
Operastar, captivating millions of viewers.

Over 200 performers including dancers, acrobats, fire eaters and the
wonderful Royal Philharmonic Orchestra will bring to life the dusty
atmosphere of the town square, the cool night air of the smugglers' mountain
hideout, and the colourful festivities outside the bullring in Seville.
Directed by David Freeman, founder of The Opera Factory and whose previous
credits include Madam Butterfly, Tosca and Carmen at the Royal Albert Hall,
this production of Bizet's masterpiece comes to The O2 on a never seen before
spectacular scale.

Darius commented: "It's an absolute privilege to undertake the role of
Escamillo in Carmen, one of the most famous operas in history. I thoroughly
enjoyed my time on Popstar to Operastar and learning the discipline of opera
was tough but hugely rewarding. This opportunity, however, takes it to the
next level and I cannot wait to get started. I want to personally thank
Raymond and the rest of the production for allowing me to be part of what
will no doubt be an incredible experience for all concerned, both cast and
audience."

Raymond Gubbay, impresario and classical music promoter, added: "It is a
great pleasure to be welcoming Darius to this exciting project for his debut
operatic performance. I watched Darius's progress on Popstar to Operastar
with great interest. To move from pop to opera is hugely ambitious but I know
Darius' passion and dedication to this project will result in a very fine
performance as Escamillo. We will be fully supporting him and I look forward
to seeing his career develop."

Sung in English, Bizet's unforgettable score contains some of opera's
finest arias and best loved music. The beguiling Seguidilla, the tantalising
Habanera and the enchanting Flower Song - sensual music that perfectly
captures the very essence of Spain. Conducted by Gareth Hancock, this world
class company of singers, musicians and artists, together with a spectacular
set and lavish costumes, will provide an unforgettable and epic production of
Carmen.

The principle roles will be shared by Cristina Nassif and Louise Poole
(as Carmen), John Hudson and Philip O'Brien (as Don Jose) with Kevin Greenlaw
and Darius Campbell (as Escamillo).

The production is designed by David Roger whose previous credits include
operas for English National Opera, Opera North and the Kirov; lighting by
multi Tony Award winning Andrew Bridge (Phantom of the Opera, Fosse, Sunset
Boulevard); choreographed by Robert North (former Artistic Director of Ballet
Rambert, Teatro Regio (Torino) and Scottish Ballet) with sound design by
Bobby Aitken and English translation by the acclaimed Amanda Holden.

This is The O2's second collaboration with Raymond Gubbay after the
hugely popular 'Christmas Spectacular' in December.

Performances of Carmen are:-

Friday 21 May @ 7.30pm

Saturday 22 May @ 7.30pm

Sunday 23 May @ 2.30pm (with Darius Campbell as Escamillo)

Tickets are available via www.theo2.co.uk or by calling
+44(0)844-856-0202. Tickets are priced between GBP25 and GBP60 with a Gold
Circle ticket at GBP95 which includes a complimentary souvenir programme.
All tickets are subject to booking fees.

Lucy Ellison, Head of Communications - AEG Europe & The O2, tele: +44(0)20-8463-2572, email: lucy.ellison at aegworldwide.co.uk