ON-THE-SPOT REPORT
Friday 6th July 2001

The 6^th was the grand opening of the new 6,500-seat amphitheater. The evening started with a short welcome from the mayor of Portsmouth, then moved on to a green ribbon cutting ceremony. Shortly after that, music filled the air as the Virginia Pops Symphony started the overture. The weather was sublime with a slight breeze and temperatures in the seventies. We could not have asked for a more perfect evening.

After a short overture, the Tenors strode across the stage and began singing, their voices in perfect unison. They looked resplendent in white tuxedo jackets with black bow ties and black slacks. Each wore a perfect red rose boutonniere pinned to their lapel. Unfortunately, I did not know the first song they sang, but after that, I spent the rest of the evening mouthing the words along with many of the other fans.

The gentlemen looked like they were having a good time all evening. They were constantly requesting that we all come to Ireland to visit and, of course, they all touted their particular home county as the best place to visit. They were also constantly joking and picking on one another. Ronan seemed to be the biggest prankster. He always looks like he is having the time of this life.

They sang many songs from their new Ellis Island cd along with several songs from previous cd’s. (See song list below). The evening seemed to go on forever and yet when it was over, seemed way too short.

The next to last song was, of course, Danny Boy, which ended with a standing ovation. The last song sung was God Bless America, which had the crowd on its feet and singing along for most of the song.

If you ever get a chance to see these guys live, do it! You couldn’t ask for a better night of music. There were fans of all ages at this show. The Tenors music seems to transcend age barriers.