The RFL
Hearts of England to headline the pre-match
Leading classical tenor Jonathan Ansell will headline the pre-match entertainment at the Carnegie Challenge Cup Final at Wembley Stadium next Saturday.
Prior to kick-off, Ansell will give the first ever public performance of the specially recorded England Rugby League World Cup team anthem ‘Hearts of England’.
The rousing and inspirational song has been produced by Universal Music in partnership with the RFL. Its lyrics capture the traditions and heartlands of Rugby League in this country as well as evoking the heroism and commitment of international teams competing on the world sporting stage.
Ansell will also be performing the National Anthem at Wembley and the classic Challenge Cup Final hymn ‘Abide with me’ in the build-up to the kick-off between Hull FC and St Helens.
Jonathan Ansell was previously a member of classical group G4. After leaving them, he released his debut solo album which shot to top of the classical charts and reached number 9 in the pop charts making him a major figure in the UK entertainment industry.
Ansell will be supported by the 100-strong Wimbledon Choral Society who will join him on the pitch to sing. The widely respected choir are known for their powerful performances and have previously appeared at the Royal Festival Hall, the Royal Albert Hall and on BBC TV’s 1998 World Cup programme theme music.
This performance will be preceded by traditional Cup Final music from the Band of the Blues and Royals. The pre-game show will also feature a parade of honour by players from the Leeds and Wakefield clubs who played in the 1968 ‘Watersplash’ Challenge Cup Final at Wembley.
Prior to that the eagerly awaited Champion Schools Year 7 (Under 11) Final will be played as the traditional junior curtain raiser to the main game. This season the game is between Pickering school of Hull and Wigan’s Standish School.
Commenting on the Carnegie Challenge Cup Final pre-match entertainment, RFL Marketing Manager Phil Williams said, “We feel this year’s pre-match entertainment will be a perfect mix of tradition, atmosphere and excitement.
“The uplifting performances by both Jonathan Ansell and the Blues and Royals will provide the perfect build-up to the big clash between the Hull FC and the Saints”.
Williams added:” We feel this musical feast will generate tremendous anticipation and excitement among all supporters inside Wembley, making the whole day a sporting event not to be missed.
“We would encourage all those attending the final to take their seats as early as possible and savour what will be a very special build-up”.
Also commenting Jonathan Ansell said: “Wembley is a great venue and I’m sure the atmosphere will be absolutely electric on the day of the Final, I’ll certainly be adding my voice to the support.
“Hearts of England is an uplifting anthem that I am proud to have recorded for the Rugby League World Cup and I’m very excited to be performing it at the Carnegie Challenge Cup Final.”
“I’m looking forward to what should be a great event”.
Jonathan Ansell returns with his highly anticipated second studio album FOREVER, due for release on Oct 6th 2008 through Universal Classics and Jazz which features the song “Hearts of England
Meanwhile, with just days to go until the Carnegie Challenge Cup Final a number of tickets are still available for sale.
Although the top priced seats of £76, £61 and £51 are now sold out, a number of tickets can still be purchased in the Hull FC and St Helens ends priced between £21 and £41.
To purchase your Carnegie Challenge Cup Final tickets please call 0871 226 13 13 or visit www.rugbyleaguetickets.co.uk
Supporters can also book their travel to Wembley with the RFL’s Official Coach Partner Fraser Eagle with day trips starting from £29.50 return. For more information, please call 0844 856 3701.
