Despite the torrential rain, fans packed out Hyde Park for Andrea Bocelli’s show knowing that this particular show was a once in a lifetime opportunity and that it was going to be worth it!

A partly seated event, ( at the front of the stage) the atmosphere was that of a cheery one even with everyone hiding under their ponchos. It’s not often you get such a phenomenal line up of classical artists at BST Hyde Park so fans were certainly revelling in it!

The stage had to have gazebos to shelter the artists from the rain. Katherine Jenkins hilariously changed into her wellies during her set and she somehow managed to make them look stunning with her elegant gown! Jenkins even performed a last minute addition of Singing In The Rain which of course was met by much laughter which eased the uncomfortableness of sitting in the rain slightly. It wasn’t just your typical rainy day in the UK, it was absolutely hammering it down! John Owen-Jones joined Jenkins on Barcelona which was an absolute delight!

Earlier in the evening Bocelli’s son Matteo Bocelli wowed the crowd with his strong vocals and his own fantastic material which included a composition he created for Netflix show From Scratch.

Andrea’s set was a masterpiece and it escalated in its masterfulness with the addition of some top graded artists which included his 12-year-old daughter Virginia who gave a stunning performance with gorgeous harmonies for a cover of Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah.

It must also be noted that The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra were as extraordinary and spectacular as ever. Starting with La Donna e Mobile, hearing the sharpness and beauty of each instrument in such an incredible setting was mind blowing! Other artists that were equally of high status and an absolute privilege to hear were Nadine Sierra (Soprano) , Isabel Leonard (Mezzo), Luca Micheletti (Baritone) Henna Munn (Soprano) Andrea Griminelli (Flautist), Rusanda Panfili (Violinist) and the Crouch End Festival Chorus.

The second half of the evening which included Nessun Dorma, was just as magical with Andrea still delivering dazzling performance after dazzling performance. Everyone still in attendance, it was almost as if the rain had stopped even though it hadn’t even lessened. Guests such as Italian singer Zucchero and Loren Aldred gave outstanding performances and being able to be in the audience for Hans Zimmer (joining Bocelli for the cinematic Nelle Tue Mani from Gladiator) was a truly awe-inspiring moment!

As a huge fan of Seal and having never seen him live before, this was certainly the perfect and most memorable way to have a first. Performing a delightful duet with Andrea of Amazing Grace and My Way, their combined vocals were sensational and really perfectly blended. As powerfully emotive as they were, it was also a remarkable experience to witness a performance of Kiss From a Rose with the orchestra and choir.

Celebrating 30 years of Andrea Bocelli’s music, the evening delivered an epic and exceptional performance from all involved. The show was an incredible experience and a night to remember! Artists and audience alike won’t ever forget this moment! It will be a show that will always be talked about. It wasn’t cancelled, and everyone powered through despite the weather and that is true showmanship and true dedication from the fans. Bocelli is one of the most exceptional vocalists in the world and in a live setting he is even more so. It was an honour and a privilege to be there.