Opera singer Nicky Spence led a vibrant Scottish-themed segment at the Last Night of the Proms, blending classical pieces with popular hits and theatrical flair. Spence, originally from Dumfries, aimed to capture the 'zeitgeist' with his musical selections, including the unexpected inclusion of Baccara's 1977 disco hit "Yes Sir, I Can Boogie."
This song, which became an unofficial anthem for Scotland ahead of Euro 2020 and was embraced by fans during the World Cup, was a departure from Spence's usual repertoire. "Singing things like this is like sorbet compared to the rest of my life, which is like a heavy meal," Spence commented, contrasting the lighthearted disco track with the demanding works of composers like Richard Wagner, Strauss, and Mozart. He noted that the latter are "much harder to sing than Yes Sir, I Can Boogie."
Spence, who has toured with notable artists like Katherine Jenkins and Dame Shirley Bassey, collaborated closely with an arranger to curate and refine his showcase. His performance featured a mash-up of traditional and modern music, enhanced by dance moves and patriotic outfits. He described himself as being more concerned with the dancing than the singing during his set. In one notable costume change, Spence appeared in red tartan trousers and a black T-shirt with gold sleeves, accompanied by dancers in kilts. Another costume featured a black jacket with the Loch Ness Monster motif and a revealed rainbow flag beneath a red kilt.
The inclusion of "Yes Sir, I Can Boogie" and the overall Scottish theme brought a sense of fun and national pride to the event, resonating with the audience and reflecting a popular cultural moment. Spence's performance aimed to be both entertaining and a playful nod to contemporary Scottish identity. The event took place at the Royal Albert Hall, a renowned venue for the BBC's annual classical music festival.