The Corrs Deliver Nostalgic Performance at Royal Albert Hall
The historic Royal Albert Hall erupted with excitement Friday evening as Irish siblings The Corrs took the stage for a special performance benefiting the Teenage Cancer Trust. Opening act Dea Matrona, comprising school friends Mollie McGinn and Orlaith Forsythe, impressed the audience with their journey from busking on Belfast streets to performing at the prestigious Royal Albert Hall. Their harmonies shone during “Glory Glory,” performed as a duo on acoustic guitars while the rest of their band took a break. Their set concluded with the ambitious “Red Button.”
The concert was part of the 2025 Teenage Cancer Trust series at the Royal Albert Hall, which runs from March 24-30 and includes performances by The Who, James Arthur, a comedy night hosted by Micky Flanagan, a special presentation by Erased Tapes featuring Penguin Cafe, and a collaboration between Frank Carter and Sex Pistols members Paul Cook, Steve Jones, and Glen Matlock.
The anticipation was palpable throughout the packed venue as the band made their entrance to thunderous applause. Opening with the haunting melody of “Only When I Sleep,” the quartet immediately captivated the audience, following it with the passionate “Give Me A Reason.”
Andrea Corr took a moment between songs to share what made the evening particularly meaningful, explaining that the Royal Albert Hall played a pivotal role in their career trajectory. She recounted how a St. Patrick’s Day performance broadcast years ago helped define their unique blend of traditional Irish music and pop-rock (which she jokingly dubbed “prock” in a Spinal Tap reference).
The band showcased their instrumental prowess early in the set when Caroline Corr led a mesmerizing rendition of “Lough Erin Shore” on violin. Fans were treated to their first major hit of the night with “What Can I Do,” which retained all of its original energy and charm.
The crowd rose to their feet for “Joy of Life,” clapping along enthusiastically. One of the evening’s standout moments came with “Ellis Island,” a poignant piano-driven composition celebrating America as a land of hope and opportunity.
As the night progressed, the band delivered “Lagan Love” and the upbeat “Radio” before launching into a spectacular run of their biggest hits. Their renowned cover of Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams” had the audience singing along word for word, followed by the powerful “I Never Loved You Anyway,” the youthful energy of “So Young,” and the timeless “Runaway.”
For their encore, The Corrs performed “Breathless,” bringing the entire Royal Albert Hall audience to their feet. The night concluded with the traditional instrumental “Toss the Feathers,” sending fans home with the perfect blend of nostalgia and Irish spirit.
Photos (c) John Stead
