Star studded line-up for UN refugee agency Darfur concert as more artists pledge support

24 November 2004

LONDON - The line up for the United Nations refugee agency concert on 8 December at London's Royal Albert Hall is growing rapidly with more artists pledging to take part in what's promised to be a spectacular night.

Among the international singers and musicians who are taking part in the 'Refugee Voices for Darfur' event are singer-songwriter David Gray, lead singer of the Pretenders Chrissie Hynde, Simply Red front man Mick Hucknall, soprano Barbara Hendricks, disco-diva Jocelyn Brown, Grammy Award nominee Alison Moyet and singers Andrew Coleman and Robbie Craig. Most of the artists will perform the music of Cole Porter in their own varied styles, and will be accompanied by the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra.

The latest performers to sign up are Greek opera star Mario Frangoulis, who sang at the opening of this year's Olympic Games in Athens, and the internationally renowned West End stage actress Ruthie Henshall, who has starred on Broadway in Putting It Together, Chicago and Miss Saigon.

It is hoped the concert will raise desperately needed funds to help the more than 1.8 million people affected by the continuing crisis in Darfur, Sudan. The situation in the strife-torn region remains extremely volatile. More than 200,000 Sudanese have fled to neighbouring Chad and close to a million and a half people, who have been displaced internally, are living in desperate conditions inside Darfur where there has been a complete breakdown in security. It has been described as the world's worst current humanitarian crisis. Proceeds from the event will be used to provide international protection and life-saving assistance.

Music producer Robin Millar, owner of Whitfield Street Studios in London, has collaborated closely with UNHCR in launching what promises to be an exceptional night.

Funds will be raised by ticket sales from the concert and online donations. The event will also be released on CD and DVD.

The 'Refugee Voices for Darfur' concert is scheduled for 7:30pm on 8th December at London's Royal Albert Hall.