Evening Mail

~ 13/12/2001, by Bob Downing ~

Michael Ball, Symphony Hall

THERE are few who can match Michael Ball when it comes to musical theatre. The singer who made his name in the West End shows Aspects Of Love and Les Miserables has the gift of stepping into the roles of so many characters when he performs songs from these successful musicals.

It was easy for him to slip into the role for Empty Chairs and Empty Tables from Les Miserables for it was a show that made him famous. But his exceptional duet with Claire Moore from Phantom Of The Opera saw him not just sing those lyrics but get right under the skin of them and deliver them with artistry.

His powerful voice is a feature of his stage act and the delivery is of the highest order. Michael Ball is simply a magnificent performer.