Anthony Nunziata – Courtesy of Robbin Wilson. Used with permission.
It was an historic occasion on Saturday when Anthony Nunziata returned to Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael for the third time, to a sold-out audience, with his special guest, Carmel native Amelia Wray, who made a cabaret debut that was right out of “A Star is Born.”
Singer-songwriter-recording artist Nunziata, whom “Broadway World” dubbed as “America’s new romantic sensation” lived up to that declaration during his act, which also reinforced his growing reputation as the next great pop crossover singer. Included in the versatile vocalist’s eclectic program were Italian arias, Broadway songs, and several of his original songs. Sprinkled throughout was the affable Nunziata’s lighthearted banter with the receptive audience with whom the appealing crooner thoroughly connected.
Considering that the Brooklyn native is half Italian, and the rest German and Irish, his genetics contribute to the powerful passion he conveys when he sings tunes such as “That’s Amore” and “O Sole Mio,” his interpretation of which caused me to experience a potent visceral reaction. His performance of Shubert’s “Ave Maria” sung in Latin, also moved me deeply.
As far as some of the tenor’s other selections in the Valentine’s themed concert, favorites included an opening medley of “This Nearly Was Mine,” “Some Enchanted Evening,” “Can’t Help Falling in Love” and “Unchained Melody,” as well as performances of “When I Fall in Love” and “Somewhere.”
Anthony Nunziata & Amelia Wray. Courtesy of Robbin Wilson. Used with permission.
Wray, a 17-year-old high school senior, showed that she is not only in possession of superb vocal chops and a distinctive tone but also natural talent. She is a true phenom, with poise and a stage presence that made her look like she was born to perform. In short, Wray, sang like a star, carried herself like a star, and reflected a stage presence that was simply electrifying. Her portion of the show included her singing Elton John’s “Bennie and the Jets,” and a song she co-wrote with her vocal coach, L.A.-based Michael Orland and Bill Grainer, “Disappear.” which is the second single she has released.
Aspiring to be a pop singer, Wray, a former “Disney kid” who co-starred in three seasons of “Sydney to the Max” as Sophia, and prior to that starred in numerous local musicals, proved she can sing in any genre. And though she is just beginning her journey as a professional singer, during her animated duet with Nunziata in “Will You Be My Every Day,” which he wrote, Wray displayed a seasoned showmanship that was well beyond her years. My conclusion: Wray has the word STAR written all over her.
In case you missed Anthony Nunziata and special guest Amelia Wray, catch them at Catalina Jazz Club in Hollywood, CA, March 17 or at their encore appearances at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel June 16 and 17. For tickets visit anthonynunziata.com.
