Biography of Sarah Brightman

Sarah Brightman (born 14 August 1960) is an English classical crossover soprano, actress, songwriter and dancer.

Brightman debuted as a dancer in troupes such as Hot Gossip and later released a string of disco singles. She achieved greater fame as a musical theatre performer and partner of theatre composer Andrew Lloyd Webber, with whom she originated several roles including Christine Daae in The Phantom of the Opera. Her 1984 marriage to Lloyd Webber, which ended in 1990 in divorce, attracted tabloid coverage.

After her divorce, Brightman became a crossover artist with former Enigma producer Frank Peterson. Her style, a blend of classical vocals and pop-inspired instrumentation and arrangement, earned her further success. Brightman has received over 150 Gold and Platinum awards in 34 countries and is the only artist to hold 1 spots on the Billboard Classical and Dance charts simultaneously. She has sold over 26 million albums worldwide.

(CRI August 6, 2008)