Katherine Jenkins

MICHAEL DRAKE

Norwich Theatre Royal

It is a long way from Wales to Norfolk but certainly for the full audience last night Katherine Jenkins' journey was worth it as the soprano whose albums are always hits made a return visit with a programme to delight her fans.

The glamorous star included many songs from her new no 1 album, including her most requested 'Oh my beloved father'. In totally different style was her classical treatment of Dolly Parton's 'I will always love you', all accompanied by the splendid small symphony orchestra conducted by Anthony Inglis. Some stunning dresses added to her attraction both vocally and visually and she became a much more fiery Jenkins in a trio of arias from Carmen.

Her special guest was a new voice to me, Icelandic tenor Gradar Cortes (who could be a reserve for Il Divo) and his full, warm voice was in passionate mood for Romanza, whilst Nesum Dorma's top C's were made to look and sound as easy as the rest and received loud 'Bravos'. We shall surely hear more of him.

In a moment of extreme self discipline I looked away from Katherine Jenkins to really listen. The lady does sing a beautiful song but I must say that for my ear it was consistently over-amplified. But finally, her classical version of Bryan Adams' 'Everything I do' was one of the evening's best from her. She has a very relaxed character and her obvious enjoyment of singing was easily displayed.