BOURNEMOUTH'S Opera House has announced an exclusive show with R&B superstar Kelis and Radio One hero Trevor Nelson.

R & B lovers are getting ready for a night to remember, as the multi-million-pound, newly refurbished Opera House, is the setting for a live performance from superstar Kelis on Friday, July 20.

The Harlem-bred vocalist will be joined by R&B hero Trevor Nelson, who will be the DJ and host for the night, blending urban vibes and sounds for an evening of soul,R & B and hip-hop.

Having played very few shows in the UK, with a mere handful of festivals, this show is the first and only UK venue date that Kelis has ever played.

She will is also be the first solo female vocalist to grace the stage at the Opera House.

Kelis is keeping prestigious company, with the Opera House announcing further soul and funk legends to the line-up throughout the summer including Isaac Hayes on August 4 and being the first and only UK venue to book Sly and the Family Stone for July 29, for their first UK performance since 1987.

Ester Gill, entertainment manager said: "The Opera House is one of the last standing independently owned venues of this size in the country and we are paying close attention to the programming so the acts booked for this venue are exclusive to the south coast and are in keeping with the magnificence of this venue."

Kelis' music career has been a long and hugely successful one, with 2005 being totally dominated by the queen of off-kilter R & B with the unbelievable success of her singles Milkshake, Trick Me, Millionaire and In Public.

2006 saw Kelis return to the limelight with the release of the Kelis Was Here album and single Bossy, which gained great success and critical acclaim.

With the wait almost over and Kelis busy writing and recording, the public is eagerly awaiting the next instalment from this two time Grammy Award nominee.

n Special Royal Box packages are available for the evening offering premier seats in the house for £100 per head for up to ten people - this includes a complimentary bar and also waitress service. Dress circle booths with waitress service can also be reserved for £60 per person.

Other tickets are £22.50 in advance and are available from the following outlets: Opera House Box office: www.operahouse.co.uk or 08701 98 98 98.

Ticketweb Outlets: www.ticketweb.co.uk or 08700 600 100 (24hr Ticketline).

Seetickets Outlets: www.seetickets.com or 0870 0600 958 (24hr Ticketline).

Or visit in person Poole Lighthouse & Frolic Records (In Burlington Arcade, Bournemouth Town Centre).