My sister and I attended "The Irish Tenors Christmas Concert" at the St. George Theatre this past weekend and had the most amazing of experiences. This opulently ornate theatre was the most beautiful we had ever been in and added to our special night. Renovated with full detail intact, a sight to behold, and a not to be missed adventure on Staten Island. The orchestra warmed up, played their first number, then the much anticipated Irish Tenors strode on stage and took their places. What a treat to be in the presence of 3 of the World's Great Tenors, who combine solos with 3 part harmonies so naturally, even adding humor and antics, for a show that mesmerizes the audience, takes them near to tears, and then to laughter, with all the emotions in between. They are opera trained with voices that fill any venue to the rafters and balconies, yet the beauty of the music is such that you are embraced with their song and vibrato, in combination with the orchestra, from the the front rows, as well.
Anthony Kearns's designation is "Ireland's Finest Tenor" and this is is a well earned and high honor, coming from Ireland, the "Land of the Tenor". You will be forever changed by his voice, if you have an ear and a heart at all for the beauty, range, and versatility. All this is combined with his powerful, musical persona and your knowledge of the good works he does in the world.
The first half of the show was dedicated to Irish songs from ditty to folk, often with poignant historic meaning, to love song, and so much more in style and variety.
After intermission, the Tenor ties switched from green to red and it was time for the full and rich ushering in of the Holidays! Each Tenor sang a solo with a carol of combined voices in harmony and parts in between, all masterfully executed. Every "old favorite" has you toe tapping, head moving, and wanting to burst out with singing along with the them....but with great effort, you keep it inside, and allow The Irish Tenors to do what they do best...Sing to their live audience! Always there are surprises as well. These world famous musicians are not to be missed! Hearing their music, is as though you are receiving a much needed infusion to your spirit and soul, to deeply nurture and sustain; so traveling to see their show should not be out of the question, if you possibly can. For me, it cannot be Christmas without them!