Jordin Sparks joining Broadway show

The 20-year-old singer - who rose to fame as the winner of 'American Idol' in 2007 - will play lead character Rosario in Grammy-winning musical 'In the Heights' from August, a role she admits will be a "dream" for her.

The 'Battlefield' hitmaker said in a statement: "It's always been one of my dreams to perform on Broadway. This is a brand new experience for me. I look so forward to spending time in New York City and joining this talented cast and my favourite new musical."

The 12-week run will play through until November 14.

Jordin revealed her nerves about the role on twitter, saying her heart was racing when she met the director.

She wrote: "Toured the theatre 4 In The Heights! Spoke w/ the director, saw backstage and where my dressing room will be. My heart wouldnt stop pounding!!(sic)"

'In the Heights' tells the tale of a Dominican family living in New York who become the focus of neighbourhood admiration when their daughter begins attending college.

Jordin is currently taking part in a 44-date-US tour which began on May 1 and finishes in early August.