Additional performances have been added for three previously sold-out shows in the upcoming Bermuda Festival of the Performing Arts.

The festival, which begins on January 11 and will run until March 3, was founded in 1976 with the purpose of increasing cultural awareness on the Island by bringing in a selection of internationally recognised artists covering the spectrum of the performing arts.

Yesterday, organisers announced that additional shows have been secured for American songstress Melba Moore's 'Sweet Songs of the Soul' on January 29, one-man show Max Maven's 'Thinking in Person' on February 1 and the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra on February 14.

"We are excited to be able to offer Festival goers additional opportunities to enjoy these wonderful performances," said festival chairman John Ellison. "These events have universal appeal and will undoubtedly sell quickly so early ticket purchase is strongly recommended."

To see a full schedule for the festival as well as artists' profiles visit www.bermudafestival.org.

Festival organisers also said that while the closure of the Ruth Seaton James Auditorium due to mould problems at CedarBridge Academy forced the cancellation of performances by the Mark Morris Dance Group, the festival has succeeded in booking the group for 2008.

Another dance group, however, Principals and Soloists from London's Royal Ballet, has adapted its programme "to maximise on the intimacy of the City Hall theatre" and will be appearing there on January 23-25, organisers said.

Tickets to all festival events, including the community outreach masterclasses being given by Opera a la Carte and Aquila Theatre Company, are available online at www.bermudafestival.org and through the Festival Box Office which re-opens on Monday.

The Box Office is located next to the Ferry Terminal on Front Street in Hamilton. It will be open Monday to Saturday between the hours of noon and 2 p.m. until March 3. Tickets can also be purchased over the phone by calling 296-5774 during Box Office hours.