Jack Savoretti and Katherine Jenkins at Emerald Theatre

As part of Brits week, Warchild is continuing its longstanding mission to bring great musical acts to intimate venues, raising awareness and funds for young people impacted by conflict. Amongst green velvet curtains and under a roaring Waterloo Bridge, Katherine Jenkins and Jack Savoretti headline, an unexpected duo whose abundance of talent overflows the Emerald Theatre.

Jenkins graces the stage in head-to-toe silver sparkle. She beams as brightly as her dress, matching mic in hand. Experiencing an aria in person is a singular experience, and Jenkins has a voice like no other. It is clear as glass, expertly controlled, and evokes deep feelings despite not understanding the lyrics. It’s fitting that an event to celebrate outreach in other countries can hear the beauty of other languages. Carmen’s Habanera is an utter treat, an iconic aria that sends shivers through the room. Caruso is likewise an unforgettable performance. The Spanish strums add enough story that one feels as though they are on those streets, staring at her on a balcony. Jenkins notes that she is usually accompanied by a full orchestra. Tonight, only a piano and guitar join her – some of these songs have never before been performed in this way. One track that shows just how excellent she is is her rendition of Golden from the film K-Pop Demon Hunters. A hyper-pop number fleshed out into a dazzling aria – beyond impressive.

After a 15-minute break, Jack Savoretti appears to thunderous applause. Impressively smooth whistle tones float through the air as a subtle start to his set. Candlelight is born again in this acoustic set; while still cinematic, the drawn-back performance brings light to his voice. His famous rasp crackles like the candlelight the song is named after. What More Can I Do? reaches emotional heights and we sway with him, full of heart and love – it’s clearly a theme for the night. Just like Jenkins, Savoretti is able to tell a story in one raspy belt, capturing the crowd. Soldier’s Eyes gives his voice a western twang, with a harmonica and guitar plucks to match, while Knock Knock is jazzy and fosters a boogie in the pit. Savoretti is as charming as ever and enchants the room.

To end, Jenkins and Savoretti sing What the World Needs Now Is Love together. It’s beautiful, it’s poignant, and it’s a blend of voices so unique it gives you goosebumps, reminding us that we are all better together.