Classic Brits 'may honour musical theatre'

Boe will perform with the cast of Les Miserables at Thursday's event

Stage musicals could be honoured at the Classic Brit Awards from 2012 onwards, organisers have revealed ahead of this year's ceremony in central London.

Speaking to The Stage newspaper, event director Maggie Crowe confirmed that "serious consideration" had been given to making musical theatre a category.

"The celebration of music that this show encompasses makes the inclusion a natural fit," she is quoted as saying.

Myleene Klass will present the ceremony later at the Royal Albert Hall.

The event, to be televised on ITV1 on 29 May, will feature a performance from tenor Alfie Boe and the cast of Les Miserables.

Fellow tenor Rolando Villazon is up for two awards on Thursday in the album of the year and best male artist categories.

British conductor Antonio Pappano has also been shortlisted twice in the best male category and critics' award categories.

A posthumous honour will be presented to the late composer John Barry, best known for his work on the James Bond films.

Elsewhere operatic quartet Il Divo will receive a special award for artist of the decade.