A LEGENDARY rhythm and blues singer stunned guests at a theatre’s first wedding.

Newly-married pair Craig Wiggins and Katrina Blackwell wowed family and friends when Alexander O’Neal showed up to sing at their big day at the Princes Theatre, in Clacton.

Mr Wiggins has worked with the theatre on a number of shows and events as owner of a production company.

He said: “I know the theatre very well and we needed somewhere which could hold 200-plus guests.

“My company liaised closely with the theatre to organise the lighting, sound and special effects, and it was just a fantastic venue which lived up to our dreams.”

It was only at the very last minute – while Katrina was in the dressing room – that the waiting guests discovered they were there for a grander occasion than they expected.

Alexander O’Neal, famous for hit song Criticize, performed a full set to put the gloss on a perfect wedding day for the fans.

Mick Skeels, Tendring Council’s cabinet member for leisure, said: “I think quite a lot of people got a surprise – but it was a nice surprise.

“The theatre looked unbelievable and from what I am told, it was an evening to remember for all who were there.”

It was the first full wedding the Princes had hosted and the theatre is hoping more will follow.

To find out more about staging a wedding at the Princes Theatre, call Melissa Leek on 01255 686026.