Updated March 31, 2009

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Tickets are on sale now for Queen Latifah, the starring performer at the Alys Stephens Center's Viva Health Starlight Gala, Saturday, April 4, 2009. Queen Latifah will perform a beautiful program of jazz and soul standards and original music highlighting her new recording, "Trav'lin Light," with songs including "Poetry Man," "I Want a Little Sugar in My Bowl," and "I'm Not in Love."

The Viva Health Starlight Gala, benefiting the Alys Stephens Center's education and programming, is the season's most elegant celebration of the arts. Call 205-975-2787 or visit www.AlysStephens.org for more information.

Two ticket packages are available for this black tie evening. The Royalty Package includes an elegant pre-show cocktail reception, premium performance seating and post-performance dinner and dancing, $600 per ticket.  The Hollywood Package includes an elegant pre-show cocktail reception and performance seating, $125 per ticket. A Queen's Table for eight and sponsorship packages also are available for purchase.

Queen Latifah has consistently proven herself a woman of kaleidoscopic talents and tremendous range. The ultimate evidence of her versatility came in 2002 when she took on the role of "Mama" Morton in the film version of the musical "Chicago," displaying polished acting chops and an exquisite, powerful singing voice. Queen Latifah's work in music, film and television has earned her a Golden Globe award, two Screen Actors Guild Awards, two Image Awards, a Grammy Award and six additional nominations, an Emmy Award nomination, an Academy Award nomination, over-the-top critical acclaim and legions of fans. Sponsors are Viva Health, Jane Stephens Comer 98.7 KISS FM, the University of Alabama at Birmingham and The Birmingham News.