OFFICIAL: Britney Will Perform at the MTV VMAs

Britney Spears was recruited to open MTV's Video Music Awards

"to make a statement," the show's producer says, officially confirming weeks of

reports that the singer will perform. "I wanted to start the show in a very big and

dramatic way, and she's the one to do that," VMA executive producer Jesse Ignjatovic

tells MTV.com. "She'll captivate everyone, and set the tone for rest of the night."

Spears consulted with illusionist Criss Angel on "some moments of the performance"

for Sunday night's show at the Palms Hotel and Casino, says Ignjatovic, who also

confirmed that she'll perform her single "Gimme More" from her upcoming album.

"You can expect the things we want and expect from Britney – that will all be there,"

he says. "What I've see of it is great. She'll be dancing, performing, dong her thing.

That's exactly what we all want."

Spears has been frequently spotted with Angel in Los Angeles and Las Vegas,

most recently at the opening of LAX Nightclub last weekend at the Luxor.

Credit: People & Ubritney