JAMES Bond himself has given his blessing to a chic musical extravaganza based on the films’ memorable theme tunes As part of its five-day programme this summer, Henley Festival is staging a 007-themed gala evening to celebrate 50 years of Ian Fleming’s famous spy.

The black tie event will feature music from the movies, West End singers, James Bond-style stunts, a guest star presenter and dancers from BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing.

Music will be performed at the Shaken & Stirred concert on July 13, by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and will include such classic tracks as Diamonds Are Forever, Goldfinger, Live and Let Die and Bond’s latest outing Skyfall.

Former Bond Sir Roger Moore said: “James Bond has played a major part of my life and I can’t imagine a more appropriately British location for a celebration of Ian Fleming’s character.”

The festival, which starts on July 10, also features headline sets by The Beach Boys on the Wednesday, Madness on the Friday, and a closing finale by Paloma Faith on the Sunday. The festival occupies a scenic location on the river. Up to 5,000 tickets will be on sale for each night, a programme of music and comedy as well as the main acts. Profits go to charity.

Festival chief Gill Mitchell said: “We are proud to play host to some of the most globally recognised artists at our party and look forward to seeing people there.”

  • Tickets go on sale to friends of the festival from henley-festival.co.uk at 10am tomorrow and on general sale soon. Prices start at £65.