Victoria Beckham ‘puts fashion first’

Victoria Beckham is happy to promote the new Spice Girls musical, as long as it doesn't "damage" her fashion empire.

The star was reunited with her former bandmates in London last month to announce details about Viva Forever!, a West End musical production based on their hit songs. Victoria was criticised for looking distant at the event, but sources close to the singer-turned-fashion designer insist she is supportive of the production.

"Victoria's fashion empire is hugely important to her and she won't do anything to damage it," a source told British magazine Heat. "She's happy about the musical to go ahead, because it won't involve her singing. She loved being a Spice Girl, but it's a no when it comes to performing. She knows she's the most successful and high-profile Spice Girl."

Victoria – along with Geri Halliwell, Emma Bunton, Mel B and Mel C – are due to attend the opening night of Viva Forever! on December 11. The 38-year-old fashionista realises the publicity surrounding the event could boost her brand.

"She gives the impression her 'real' world is more important and this is all a pain, but she knows it's all great publicity," the source added.