AFTER tasting fame as a finalist on TV's opera version of the X-factor a Warrington mum to be is hoping her singing career will take off after entertaining the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire.
Classical singer, Donna-Marie Povey, performed for the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire at their stately home; Chatsworth House, Derbyshire, coiniciding with the release of her first album.
Donna-Marie, aged 32, who works for Warrington council's 'Children's Services' with vulnerable pupils and pupils excluded from school, recalled:"As we approached Chatsworth House, it took my breath away as it is so beautiful. It was the first time that I'd ever been to Chatsworth or met the Duke and the Duchess. I knew I had to give an amazing performance as there were so many special guests and it was such a wonderful venue".
Without sponsorship or management, Donna-Marie, who is expecting her first child in January, has produced an album of well loved classical songs, from Gershwin to Puccini, which she presented to the Duchess.
"I know that the Duchess is a fan of the kind of music that I sing and when I gave her my CD as a gift, the Duke turned to the Duchess and exclaimed 'Aren't you the lucky one!'. The Duke and the Duchess were so friendly and lovely and made me feel very welcome in their stunning home."
Already Donna-Marie has attracted the support of Warrington based design director and photographer Adam Carter. Adam is the salon owner of Jakata Salon based on Bridge Street in Warrington and styled the photo shoot for Donna-Marie’s album and also created the design for the CD artwork.
Donna-Marie has trained for a number of years with the much respected Cheshire based singing teacher Caroline Crawshaw. She was a finalist from the Channel 4's hit T.V. programme ‘Operatunity’; a kind of opera version of the X-Factor. Married to musician Ross, who helped her record her debut album at Budworth Church, the couple are expecting their first child in January.
"I'm really excited by the prospect of becoming a mum and I will have to put the singing on hold for a few months."
Meanwhile she hopes to secure sponsorship and a record deal so that future albums can be promoted nationally.
As a big Warrington Wolves Rugby League fan she would also love the opportunity of singing before a game at the Halliwell Jones Stadium next season.