John Warner Author

As I began writing this Blog/Review, I decided to look back at the others I have written about Michael Antoniou; I was nervous I would repeat myself. What do you say about a man you have written about so many times before? Well, plenty.

All aspects of these events are organized by Michael personally right up to the final moment when he stands before you to make your night unique and memorable. We are his guests; every one of us feels as though we are there as a personal guest; that is the magic and professionalism of the man.

As with all Michael’s performances, they are never repetitive; there is always a subtle difference to each performance, similar to Frank Sinatra.

For those who have yet to experience Michael’s performance, even though the word/phrase Tribute appears in Michael’s promotional posts, he is not a Tribute act; his unique voice is a testament to that statement.

A voice that continues to grow in strength and vocal range each time I see him, this  is refreshing because no matter how often you see him, there is always a subtle difference in the show.

This review centers on last Thursday’s performance at the Vasilikon Winery, Kathikas Paphos.

The venue was ideal, an open terrace affording stunning sunset views over Kathikas, providing a fresh, relaxed, almost holiday atmosphere, all of which complimented the professional performance of all concerned.

You felt at ease and lulled into what became a night of the stars with numbers made famous by Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davies Jnr, all performed in the laid-back lilting voice of Mr. Antoniou.

Before performing each number, Michael enlightens the audience with some facts on the origin of the song he is about to perform which bring the audience closer. Michael takes his research seriously as the information is spot on. During this intro, the audience gets to hear his rich Scottish burr preparing them for what’s to come.

This year he has stretched his vocal range once more and added some beautiful numbers; one, in particular, was the theme from the Godfather, `Speak Softly Love`; it was indeed a stunning rendition of this fabulous song. Michael’s rich voice placed such feeling and emphasis on each lyric giving a moving depth to the performance, an absolute pleasure to witness. Our guest on the evening remarked afterward, `I had the shivers that was so beautiful`, and indeed it was.

During the night, Michael’s son Mathew, certainly following Dad’s footsteps, gave us his rendition of L.O.V.E. that famous Nat King Cole number, as he usually does on these occasions. However, only yet a youngster but with a relaxed attitude, he is undoubtedly following in Dad’s footsteps. Later in the evening, we were stunned once again into silence when Michael and Mathew offered us their duet of Lennon & McCartney’ hit, Yesterday.’

You really could hear a pin drop during this performance. It was the highlight of the night, as they sang, touching each note with perfection; the look of Admiration and Love in Mathew’s eyes as he looked at his Dad as they sang in fantastic harmony, and the pride on Michael’s face at the end was a joy to see.

The night was made enjoyable for me because Michael was accompanied by, The Moon River Swing & Jazz Band, these guys, Renad Nourmanchine on Keyboard, Sergi Sergienko on Drums, and. Zak Evangelou on Saxophone, fit so well with Michael and he with them.

I especially enjoy it when they are together as it relaxes Michael allowing him room to play with the lyrics of a song. The audience also benefit, enjoying the laid back atmosphere of guys enjoying their music, this you do not get from backing tapes, but all, of course have their place.

Michael’s shows are a little different each time, you never think; well, I saw him a few weeks ago. I will give it a miss this time, no you never think that because you might miss out on something.

The catering by Vasilkon Winery was excellent; a three-course buffet with emphasis on Salad, Roast Pork, Chicken, and Ham Pasta, a menu for everyone, accompanied by an array of outstanding award-winning wines that were superb. Attentive service from all the staff ensured an evening to remember.

So, in conclusion, thank you, Michael, once again for a great night; we had everything, Atmosphere, High-end entertainment, great wines, and quality food; what more could you ask for as we once more make our way out of Lockdown.

The next event here with Michael is Three’s Company featuring Geoff Rey & Chris Andre, both well-known talented performers on the circuit here in Paphos, so don’t miss out on that one.

Tickets available by contacting 99854375 or direct to Vasilikon Winery Kathikas.

Bless you and thank you for reading this blog,

I wish you what I have, people around you…who care

http://www.jwgratitude.com