[ ClassicalX ] City to host singer

She's sold more than four million albums and sung for Queen Elizabeth and the Dalai Lama, but next up for classical singer Hayley Westenra is a May Day performance in Palmerston North.

Christchurch-born Westenra, 21, will kick off her River of Dreams New Zealand tour with a show at the Regent On Broadway on May 1.

She will be accompanied by a mini-grand pianist, guitarist and backing singer at the shows, which will feature the greatest hits from her three international albums.

Westenra is currently touring the United Kingdom and Japan after recovering from a bronchial problem that forced her to cancel a number of shows.

Westenra last performed in Palmerston North during her 2006 Odyssey tour.

Popular tracks from the tour include her versions of Pokarekare Ana, Amazing Grace, Danny Boy and Ave Maria. Tickets for the 10 shows will be available from March 20.

Source: Manawatu Standard