Two nights after Escondido, I was able to share in the enchantment of another evening with Anthony Kearns; and that is what the evening was: enchanting! The program was much the same, in a much smaller venue. It is apparent to me that Anthony prefers the smaller, more intimate venues. He was even more animated and attuned to his audience, at times bantering with them and even at the end, play acted at refusing to return for an encore. He was a delight.

I needn’t dwell on the program’s similarities, so will tell you instead of the differences. After his “Danny Boy” he received his standing “O,” did his little bit about NOT returning, and then returned to sing “Mother Ireland.” It was very powerful and moving. Right after that, Patrick asked him to again sing “O Sole Mio” which was every bit as grand as it had been on Friday night! He then gave an Irish blessing, translated it to “Safe Home,” and left the stage. I don’t think that the lad wanted to stop singing; he was so very obviously enjoying himself!

This audience very well received Anthony’s operatic selections. I noticed that the applause was much more vigorous after: “La Donna e Mobile” and “Salut! Demeure Chaste et Pure,” with lots of ‘Bravos’ and ‘More’ to be heard. “Smiling Through,” “Vienna Mine,” “Danny Boy,” and “Macushla” came in a very close second in audience reaction.

Anthony announced “Smiling Through” by saying that Patrick had found it under his bed while “hovering!” and I believe the audience was caught off guard for a moment by Anthony’s little acting job while doing “Trottin’ to the Fair,” but warmed up to it quickly and gave a nice round of applause for it. They were learning that on stage was a very professional, talented, but quite impish man! They were in his pocket by the end of this concert!

The venue was terribly excited to have landed this quality of performer and made it very clear that they want him back as soon as they can get him!

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