It’s been many decades since both Welsh stars Shirley Bassey and Tom Jones appeared at Newport venues on their way up the entertainment ladder. So it was a welcome chance for fans to sample the pair’s music in Newport once again, in the tribute lead show, A Night with Welsh Legends at The Neon Theatre on Saturday evening.
The show opened with a real Wales legend, the evenings host, Owen Money, who along with his band, delighted the audience with a selection of 60s hits, comedy and fun reminiscences.
Rachael Roberts then took to the stage, overflowing with Shirley Bassey brilliance via gestures looks and style, topped off with a shimmering silver evening dress. Roberts maintained a strong rapport with both her band and the audience, giving performances of Bassey’s landmark hits Big Spender, S’Wonderful, Goldfinger, Diamonds Are Forever and a Bassey style arrangement of The Doors’ Light My Fire.
Andrew Thomas, similarly captured his subject, Tom Jones’ big baritone sound with coolness, ease and energy with renditions of The Green Green Grass of Home, Help Yourself, Thunderball and Kiss. So receptive were the audience to Thomas’ portrayal of Jones it didn’t take long for the ladies to accept his invitation to get up on the floor and dance.
The combination of Money, Roberts and Thomas certainly provided an unforgettable evening of entertainment bringing the music of Jones and Bassey to the forefront, all legends in their own right.