Julie Andrews to return to London stage

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LONDON, Nov. 25 (UPI) -- Singer and actress Julie Andrews, who sued a New York hospital for damaging her singing voice, is to headline a London concert in the spring, organizers said.

The BBC said the May 8 show, "An Evening with Julie Andrews," at the O2 Arena will mark the 74-year-old performer's first appearance on the British stage in 30 years.

The "Sound of Music" and "Mary Poppins" star is expected to be backed by an ensemble of five performers and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra when she sings songs from her hit movies, the British broadcaster said. She reportedly will also read aloud "Simeon's Gift," a children's book she penned with her daughter.

Andrews has rarely sung in public since she underwent throat surgery in 1997. She later reached an undisclosed settlement with Mount Sinai Hospital where the operation was performed. She alleged the operation damaged her famous soprano voice.

"To perform once again in my homeland on the London stage will be a wonderful moment -- it is where it all began for me," Andrews said in a statement. "I am so excited to be able to share a brand new work with audiences."