Jonathan Antoine shot to fame after becoming an overnight sensation as one half of the classical duo Jonathan and Charlotte, as part of series six of popular ITV show Britain's Got Talent in 2012.
Jonathan, a classically trained tenor from Essex, once again proved to a shocked audience that you should never judge a book by its cover when he first braved the judges on BGT. He received a standing ovation with the duos rendition of "The Prayer". Despite coming second in the shows final, Jonathan some rose to fame as a successful solo artist and has gained a loyal fan base. It is hard to believe that Jonathan only very recently turned 21 as he has the stage presence of a much older, established artist that has had decades of performing to large audiences.
Jonathan was due to perform at Leeds City Varieties theatre approximately six weeks ago, however due to illness on the day requiring an ambulance service, the show was cancelled less than thirty minutes before start time. However loyal fans returned from far and wide to the rescheduled show, and this evening was opened on a light note by Jonathan and Robert (Emery) joking that they initially planned to open with Robert once again apologising that the show was once again cancelled. 
The duo have an excellent rapport and the conversation between the pair and the audience flows with ease and despite being in quite a grand theatre, a real intimate atmosphere was created. The theatre itself is Leeds answer to Dragon Alley - a magical nostalgic theatre tucked - almost hidden - away down a small alleyway amongst the bustling Leeds high street, merely a stones through away from Harvey Nichols and Louis Vuitton, yet on approach to the theatre it gives one a magical sense that they are miles away in some ancient magical land. This was my second visit to this theatre, my first being in 1999 for an acoustic performance by 80s pop star Belinda Carlisle where I fell in love with the theatres amazing acoustics! Tonight's performance once again showed what a wonderful venue the theatre is and how awesome the acoustics sound. Jonathans voice filled the auditorium with a voice stronger than the entire English National Opera (I've witnessed several live performances by them, and as wonderful as they are, tonight Jonathans' voice out shone ENO).
Performing a wide variety of songs from classical opera and hits such as Hallelujah, two of my favourites from my all-time favourite musical Les Misérables; Empty Chairs at Empty Tables and Bring Him Home, plus a hauntingly spellbinding rendition of Hushabye Mountain from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, there was something for everyone.
Backed by local Youth Choir "Rock Up and Sing", from nearby spa town Harrogate; a predominately female choir with only four male members and accompanied by Robert Emery on piano and several solos by musician Sarah Ings on saxophone, the evening seemed to be over so quickly despite being just over two hours long. Jonathan could sing the alphabet and make it sound magical!
Jonathan has such wonderful stage presence, loyal fans that gave a standing ovation after each song and a voice that will continue to provide a successful long running career. A career I now plan to continue following and supporting for the rest of my life. Jonathan is a real credit to the stage and an absolute pleasure to watch. Enjoy the rest of the tour Jonathan!
Reviewer: Lottie Davis-Browne
Reviewed: 18th January 2016
