The “Up Close” series by the Overture Center is an exciting opportunity for music appreciators to engage with a range of artists in a unique and intimate setting, and the first artist to kick off the 2023/24 season will be singer and cellist Gabriel Royal.
The Oklahoma-born singer will be taking the stage at 8 pm on Oct. 20 in the Capitol Theater which will be turned into a cocktail lounge for the nearly-sold-out performance. Royal began in the subway stations of New York City where he was inspired by the commuters of New York. An inspiration that continues to this day from a space that brought him his layer, manager, and even his cello.
Royal also draws inspiration from the jazzy yet poppy Burt Bacharach along with Stevie Wonder’s groove and a mix of contemporary artists, according to a press release from The Overture Center. However, his sound is his own with Royal releasing a self-titled album in 2016 along with a single and music video for “Say It’s Right,” directed by Blake Farber.
Royal has also performed to crowds at top music venues such as (Le) Poisson Rouge and The Blue Note Jazz Club. Fests such as the Monterey and Newport Jazz Festivals along with many European festivals such as North Sea have also seen Royal’s talents shared on their stages.
Combining the cello and his voice to provide soaring vocals, hum-along melodies, and lush arrangements, Royal’s work has allowed him to collaborate with big names in the industry while performing to sold-out audiences around the world.
Those who purchase tickets will be able to sit on the Capitol Theater stage at small cabaret tables and beverages will be available for purchase. Tickets are available in limited quantities at the Overture Center website here.
