Welsh opera star Katherine Jenkins has high hopes for DWTS

The Associated Press
March 12, 2012 at 2:56PM

LONDON - Welsh opera star Katherine Jenkins may have a leg up on some of her "Dancing with the Stars" competitors: She's already used to high heels.

The mezzo-soprano has been practicing for the show in London with professional partner Mark Ballas.

He says her preference for stilettos is an advantage because she is used to running around in shoes that are higher than ballroom shoes.

The two fly to the U.S. Monday to join the other competitors, who include "Family Matters" actor Jaleel White, singer Gladys Knight and National Football League player Donald Driver.

Jenkins and Ballas deny rumors they are romantically linked off the dance floor.

Jenkins says: "We knew each other for just twelve hours, and in the press it is we are now dating."

The new season of "Dancing With The Stars" starts March 19 on ABC.

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