Despite the current stagnation in the entertainment world, Bravo Productions took the incredibly brave decision to stage a series of “socially distanced” outdoor events in the beautiful grounds of Tonbridge Castle last weekend and, I am thrilled to say, the gamble paid off handsomely.
The weather was amazing, the organisation impeccable, the safety measures were more than adequate and the chance to enjoy live events again was welcomed by the enthusiastic audiences and by the performers themselves as well.
Sunday evening was the final show of the long weekend of entertainment and it falls to London classical crossover supergroup, The Ida Girls, to take to the stage and finish off the weekend in style – and the four classically trained sopranos do just that.
Looking supremely elegant in flowing black and white gowns, and obviously thrilled to be back performing after six very long and empty months, Georgi, Sarah, Kirsty and Jasmine launch into the first number and their crystal-clear voices soar out over the castle grounds and away into the equally clear evening sky.
We are promised an evening of music from Hollywood to the West End and on to the Royal Opera House at Covent Garden and, with songs from The Greatest Showman, Phantom of the Opera and operatic arias like O Mio Bambino Caro from Puccini’s opera Gianni Schicchi, that is exactly what is delivered – with a few surprise extras thrown in for good measure.
With a fearless determination to sing a massive cross-section of music, The Ida Girls also treat their appreciative audience to an incredible version of Ed Sheeran’s monster hit Perfect and they even give the baritones a run for their money with a simply sensational version of Votre Toast, Je Peux Vous le Rendre (The Toreador Song) from Bizet’s Carmen.
With two hours before the show to tuck into our picnics, and an invitation to stay in our “bubbles” after the show (to avoid a rush for the exit) the evening Is executed to perfection, a massive credit to Bravo Productions, a small but very ambitious production company.
As for The Ida Girls, they are simply sensational. Elegant, charming, incredibly talented and supremely entertaining. Their repertoire covers many genres, with each and every song delivered with sheer and utter perfection. As the finale, a medley from Les Miserables, gently drifts away, so do the audience, still thrilled to pieces that quality live entertainment has returned.. at last.
***** Five Stars