Samara Joy

Always fun to attend the Royal Albert Hall in person, and tonight was no exception. I love the place, and I’m seldom happier than when I stroll across Kensington Gardens from my hotel, to reach the RAH, where, invariably, I am in for a night of world-class entertainment.

Arrived at the Albert Hall ahead of time. Outside I was handed a ‘newspaper’ and sticker by everythingjazz.com. I happily accepted.  

I had just enough time to peruse the proms and RAH merchandise in the foyer. Picked up my ‘must-have’ proms guide - a nice heavy yellow book priced £9.99, and also the programme for tonight’s specific entertainment (£7). 

Notes on the venue:

Tonight I was sat in Rausing circle P, row 3, seat 1. The weather outside was muggy and humid - typical July - and I did struggle to cool down inside the hall. I noticed a few fellow prommers fanning themselves with programmes.

Not that that took away any of the magic of the show:

For the show itself:

Well, what a night of sublime jazz at the RAH last night! In this run I had to chose one weekend when I could afford to attend the proms in person, and I don’t regret choosing this weekend.

I had not heard of Samara Joy before, but I am sure her name will be one to remember. Just 25 years old, she has a voice and stage presence way ahead of her years. 

It is hard to pick a favourite song because it was, honestly, all stand out. If there was a stronger half, I would say it was the second (cue outfit change, from white to red!)

Sticking in my memory are the Billy Holliday and Duke Ellington covers, the 5 (was it?) shades of love, and the encore.

And encore, I say!