SPRINGFIELD — The Irish Tenors are no strangers to Springfield, having performed in the city multiple times over the years.
It will, however, be the group’s first time playing at the Hope Center for the Arts — the entertainment venue established by Prides Stores founder Robert Bolduc — when they take the stage on Friday.
“This part of America is so rich in Irish heritage and culture — and we always feel so at home when we are in the area,” said Anthony Kearns, who along with Ronan Tynan and Patrick Hyland, make up the Irish Tenors.
“Together, and as a group, we have played many concerts here, and it always feels like a reunion, even if we are meeting new friends and fans,” he added.
For over 25 years, the Tenors have brought a mix of traditional Irish ballads and contemporary standards to venues worldwide. The trio has performed sold-out shows at Radio City Music Hall, Madison Square Garden, Carnegie Hall in New York, the Hollywood Bowl in California and the Sydney Opera House in Australia.
Kearns, who has been a member of the group since its inception in 1998, performed at the eternal flame ceremony at Arlington Cemetery in 2013, which marked the 50th anniversary of the late President John F. Kennedy’s visit to Ireland.
He also headlined a pre-Mass concert during Pope Francis’ visit to the United States in 2015.
Kearns said he is looking forward to the “unique sensory experience” provided by the Hope Center for the Arts, referring to the venue’s unique sound system, which separates overlapping tones so each individual voice and instrument can be heard clearly.
And while Friday’s concert will certainly feature some well-loved Irish tunes, from “Danny Boy” to “Fields of Athenry,” “our concerts are not just for the Irish, or the Irish in spirit,” Kearns said.
The Tenors’ repertoire is filled with Christmas songs and uplifting music for the season, which they will bring to their show at the Hope Center for the Arts.
The concert will start at 7 p.m. at 150 Bridge St. in Springfield. The lobby opens at 6 p.m. Tickets are $65 to $90 in advance and can be purchased online.
According to the Hope Center’s website, 100% of sales will benefit free programs for city youth.
“We look forward to kicking off the holiday season in Springfield,” Kearns said.
