Michael Ball, BIC

Michael Ball has been plagued by illness during his tour. His Bristol show was cancelled and there was a trace of chestiness in his voice last night.

But what a trooper he proved, packing every last ounce of energy and zest for performing into his BIC show. Buoyed by the reaction, he seemed on top of the world, blissfully happy to be back in Bournemouth where he had been enjoying the Spring sunshine on the beach.

His arrival on stage, with a full orchestra, was greeted by a spontaneous standing ovation. The smart suit was staid; his performance anything but.

His dramatic, wide-ranging baritone voice triumphed over any lingering illness as he packed power, passion and expression into each eagerly-received number.

The punchy opening track One Night Only was swiftly followed by rock band Rainbow's Since You've Been Gone as he delivered an impressive variety of songs from different musical genres.

Songs chosen from his latest, 14th solo album One Voice' featured the haunting The Living Years, while the fabulous Scissor Sisters hit I Don't Feel Like Dancing saw him doing a wild 70s John Travolta style dance. And between the songs there were funny stories and lots of laughter.

He is at his most magical performing songs from musical theatre. Empty Chairs at Empty Tables from Les Miserables, Love Changes Everything from Aspects of Love and High Flying Adored from Evita were electric!

Many of the adoring fans are of pensionable age, but it did not prevent swarms of them from flocking to the stage. "We love you Michael" they shouted. The feeling seemed mutual.