Manchester’s own chart-topping pop heart-throb Shayne Ward will be the star attraction at the event to switch on his home city’s Christmas lights on 8 November.
The 2005 X Factor winner, whose latest single No U Hang Up/If That's Ok With You is riding high in the charts, will sing three numbers to entertain the expected crowd of thousands.
He will be joined by stars from seasonal shows at the city's leading theatres in a fun-filled extravaganza featuring singers, dancers and a Panto Idolcontest, rounded off with a fabulous firework finale.
Manchester City Council's city centre spokesman, Councillor Pat Karney, said: "It's great to have a home-grown star to lead our fantastic Christmas lights switch-on with something for all the family.
"It is always one of the biggest events of the year and a great way to kick off the festive season of events in the city."
From The Lowry's magical pop pantomime, there will be Chesney Hawkes in the lead role of Dick Whittington.
And from Cinderella at the Opera House there will be Key 103's Sony Award-winning 'King of Breakfast' Mike Toolan, who is playing Prince Charming.
The UK's hottest dance/pop band Booty Luv , still buzzing from the success of their debut album Boogie 2Nite , will keep up the musical pace. These princesses of the dance floor are Nadia Shepherd and Cherise Roberts, former front women of chart-topping hip-pop act Big Brovaz.
The show will be presented by Mike Toolan and Chelsea Norris , his fellow Key 103 Breakfast host.
The show will start with a high-energy and colourful disco-themed performance by six dancers from Universal Dance Creations in 70s costumes to get the crowd in the party spirit - think loud, bright colours, lycra and flares!
The main Lights Switch-on event starts at 6.30pm in Albert Square, with the fireworks finale at around 7.15pm.
For early arrivals, there will be entertainment from 6pm, including a performance of a selection of the Manchester Carols, the Christmas Story in songs relevant to those with or without faith. They were written by Carol Ann Duffy, Britain's favourite living poet, and accomplished local composer, Sasha Johnson Manning, and will be sung by a choir of children and adults.
Continuing the cultural theme, there will be an appearance by characters in costume from Tom's Midnight Garden at the Library Theatre.
Also taking part will be former World Champion swimmer James Hickman and Speedy the swordfish , mascot for the 9th FINA World Swimming Championships 2008 to be held in the city next April. And for the young ones there will be an appearance by Bearemy bear, mascot of Build-a-Bear Workshops.
Media contact:
Martin Hellewell, tel 0161 234 3729