RICHARD PARR Opera star José Carreras has spoken of his delight that he is to perform amid the beautiful surroundings of Holkham Hall.

RICHARD PARR

Opera star José Carreras has spoken of his delight that he is to perform amid the beautiful surroundings of Holkham Hall.

Carreras, regarded as one of the world's greatest tenors, has selected the grounds for his only UK show this year.

“Having been spoilt by the beauty of Catalonia landscape, my home, for so long, it is rare that I discover beauty that takes my breath away,” he said last night.

“Holkham was not familiar to me until I was informed that Holkham beach was the setting for the beautiful clos-ing scene of the film, Shake-speare in Love; I was, there-fore, delighted to be invited by Viscount Coke to perform at his exquisite home.”

The tenor said he loved British audiences, adding: “I find it terribly charming the way the audiences at these open-air concerts create such a stylish atmosphere.

“We are blessed with a tranquil setting and as the mists rise over the lake I can picture people arriving at the natural amphitheatre having prepared their lavish picnics, a concept that I only see in England and which appeals to me immensely,” he said.

He added: “What could be more pleasurable than settling down to supper under the stars, appreciating beauti-ful music and watching the sky light up with fireworks?”

Carreras will be accompan-ied at his first appearance in Norfolk by the City of London Sinfonia conducted by David Gimenez. His performance - on September 1 - will be supported by the young soprano, Kate Royal.

Viscount Coke said everyone on the estate was looking forward to the first concerts.

Up to 10,000 people are expected to attend each of the concerts for which tickets are selling fast.

On September 2, it will be the turn of Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra.

The Carreras show costs £37.50 while tickets for Jools Holland are priced at £32.50.

Call the ticket hotline on 08700 667733.