Classical singer Victor Michael on performing at the Floral Pavilion, travelling around the world – and meeting his hero Andrea Bocelli

Aug 10 2011 by Lorna Hughes, Birkenhead News

CHARISMATIC classical crooner Victor Michael is returning to Wirral by popular demand this weekend.

The Manchester-based singer and his orchestra are performing at the Floral Pavilion Theatre, New Brighton on Saturday (August 13) after a sell-out concert last year.

The concert will be the third the 29-year-old has performed for Age UK Wirral’s Dementia Wing appeal.

He will sing classical hits and songs from the shows, with a section dedicated to Mario Lanza and Andrea Bocelli.

The singer said: “The last time I performed at the Floral Pavilion it was a full house and it was a fantastic night.

“It’s a beautiful theatre and it’s always a good atmosphere with the band there as well.”

Victor started singing at 17, inspired by his dad Vic’s role as a band leader. “I started off doing the usual rock and pop covers and that kind of thing.

“I got into classical music when I was 21 or 22.

“I started having vocal lessons then gradually put a show together and that’s where I’ve had my success.

“It’s enabled me to do some travelling, which I always hoped I’d be able to do.

“I’ve got some theatre shows in this country over the summer and then I’m going on the Azura cruise ship to Morocco in September. It’s all good!”

Victor has sung all over the world, from Nashville, USA, to Dubai and cruise ship shows around the Norwegian Fjords and in the Caribbean.

But it was back home in Manchester where he met his hero Andrea Bocelli.

He said: “I’ve performed for Manchester City a few times and their chief executive Gary Cook asked me to attend an event at the MEN Arena in December. After the show I got to meet Bocelli. He has an amazing presence and I was honoured to meet him.

“I couldn’t believe the size of him – he’s 6ft 5ins! There’s a photo of us together and I look like a hobbit!”

l Tickets for Victor Michael at the Floral Pavilion Theatre are £14 from 666 0000 or www.floralpavilion.com. The concert starts at 7.30pm.