Darius to star in Carmen

Darius Campbell, the winner of Popstar to Operastar, will perform his first full opera on 23 May, Bizet’s Carmen.

In February, Darius told Classic FM that he was keen to move from a pop to classical crossover career, if he were to win the TV talent show Popstar to Operastar. The 29-year-old singer has always had an affinity with opera thanks to his father’s passion for the genre: "My Dad is such an opera fanatic and I think he always hoped for me to follow a more classical route."

Darius had the opportunity to sing single arias and duets in Popstar to Operastar. On 23 May his stamina will be tested as he performs his first full opera.

He hasn’t chosen an easy venue at which to make his debut: the Raymond Gubbay production will take place at London’s O2 Arena, with a cast of more than 200. Darius will play the role of bullfighter Escamillo, whose famous Toreador aria he sang on Popstar to Operastar.

Raymond Gubbay commented: “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.”