Barnaby's return to OHP a massive success

Barnaby received tremendous reviews for his portrayal of Colline in La Boheme at Opera Holland Park in London.

"Rea is a terrific Colline, forthright yet sensitive, his characterisation nicely contrasting with Thatcher’s fastidious, slightly camp Schaunard."

- Tim Ashley, The Guardian

“Barnaby Rea’s Colline and Harry Thatcher’s Schaunard having a whale of a time; they were similarly commanding and engaging as they choreographed the action of Act two. Rea’s ‘Vecchia zimarra’ was doleful and laconic – the aria can sometimes come over as oddly pantomimic or silly – but carefully-nurtured legato lines and the oaky colors of Rea’s instrument gave it an understated gravitas."

- Operawire, Benjamin Poore

"Barnaby Rea, who asserts his tremendous bass, is Colline and an aspiring cinematographer.”

- Sam Smith, MusicOMH

"Harry Thatcher’s Schaunard and Barnaby Rea’s Colline both score highly, the latter making a true highlight of his farewell to his beloved coat."

- George Hall, The Stage

“… the four singers' dramatic performances were delightfully engaging Barnaby Rea not only sang is farewell to his coat rather well, but he made it part of the character's musico-dramatic arc rather than the 'here's my famous aria' moment.”

- Planet Hugill, Robert Hugill

"Marcello, Colline and Schaunard were all believable interpretations, full of warmth, energy, and humour. In particular, Barnaby Rea, as Colline, delivered his farewell to his coat as if his life depended on it."

- British Theatre, Tim Hochstrasser