Tom Fetherstonhaugh’s Fantasia Orchestra and mezzo-soprano Niamh O’Sullivan’s delighted audiences in the last concert of the orchestra’s residency at Smith Square Hall!
From Mahler to Manhattan celebrated the remarkable versatility of both the orchestra and its guest artist. It served well as a reminder of an exciting milestone for the orchestra, which is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year. The selection of pieces spans orchestral favourites and musical theatre songs. It was well balanced and aligned with the characteristics of Fantasia Orchestra’s mission, which is “to bring different musical genres into dialogue with each other”.
Throughout the evening, Fantasia Orchestra demonstrated energy and precision under Fetherstonhaugh’s direction. The ensemble moved effortlessly between different musical styles, bringing drama, passion, and vitality to every piece. Niamh O’Sullivan was captivating, delivering each song with elegance and with an engaging stage presence. She managed to balance lyrical beauty with wit and charm whenever the music demanded it. Special recognition should also go to Harry Baker for his imaginative arrangements, several of which had their world premiere during this concert.
For me, Richard Strauss’s Serenade, Op. 7, was one of the highlights of the evening, due to the dramatic contrasts offered by the different sections of the piece. The renditions of Cole Porter’s I Get a Kick Out of You from Anything Goes and George Gershwin’s Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off from Shall We Dance were similarly delightful. The latter brought an interesting sense of humour and freshness to the programme, drawing smiles from the audience while still feeling entirely at home alongside the concert’s more solemn pieces.
This was the last concert of this year’s Fantasia Orchestra’s residency at Smith Square Hall. However, Fetherstonhaugh hinted at another residency next year. Likewise, he invited the audience to some upcoming concerts, including their debut at Cheltenham Music Festival 2026 (7 July 2026) and a celebration of the orchestra’s tenth year anniversary at the BBC Proms (9 August 2026).
Tickets to attend this concert were provided complimentary. Thank you for the experience!
Gonzalo
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