Review - Tenors Unlimited, Theatre Royal Wakefield

I'm going to let you into a little secret, the three chaps who make up Tenors Unlimited are not all tenors. Although Scott Ciscon and Jem Sharples can lay claim to the label, Paul Martin is actually a bass-baritone - not that it matters one jot. In fact incorporating Martin's harmonies into the mix makes for a richer, more well-balanced sound that makes their music even more accessible to a wider audience.

The trio, who have been together since 2002 and like to be known as Rat Pack of Opera, were at the Theatre Royal Wakefield recently during their ‘From Venice to Vegas’ tour - the first time they have visited the city - and they played to a packed house and a very appreciate audience.

Their obvious affection and respect for each other, borne out by such a long professional relationship shines through. Their phrasing is tight, the harmonies faultless and their humour infectious.

They kicked off the night with one of their own compositions Viva La Vita, which set the tone for the whole night. They swung between opera classics like Nesum Dorma (of course) and a brilliant rendition of La Donna e Mobile from Rigoletto which sent spirits soaring, Sting’s Fragile and a simply wonderful version of Ed Shearan’s beautiful Thinking Out Loud. Interspersed were the show stoppers Volare and Barcelona and a chance for the three of them to sing solo

The whole evening was magical and you didn’t have to be an opera buff to enjoy the experience. The three performers didn’t assume the audience knew what they were listening to and took the time to explain each song and to interact with each other.

Let’s hope they come back soon.