The Cardiff leg of Leona Lewis’ long-awaited Christmas With Love tour was an evening brimming with both festive spirit and a selection of heartwarming moments. Delayed from last year due to her welcoming a new addition to her family, the concert delivered a classy experience that fans won’t forget throughout this Christmas period.

Opening the evening was powerhouse newcomer Akicita, whose magnetic presence and soul-stirring vocals reached every corner of the arena. Her performance of new single FWMN was a testament to her ability to transform personal struggles into resonant art. As a rising talent, Akicita’s passion and advocacy for the unheard shine through her music, making her a noteworthy addition to the evening.

Unfortunately, Leona Lewis had to curtail her set prematurely due to illness, but her commitment and dedication were evident. And, in classic Welsh fashion, the audience helped her through each song – along with her talented band and supportive singers. Despite this setback, Lewis graced the stage with ethereal vocals, delivering hits of yore – Bleeding Love and Better In Time, to name two – while renditions of Christmas classics like O Holy Night were truly in keeping with her angelic voice.

The heartfelt moments during Lewis’ show further elevated the evening’s atmosphere – inviting a couple to share a table on stage before serenading them came off as a touching gesture, highlighting the singer’s connection with her audience. Three more crowd members, including a young girl, then joined her to sing and dance along to One More Sleep – it radiated the spirit of the season, and the visual aspect was as enchanting as the music itself.

A stage set masked with magnificent draping gold curtains and a grand Christmas tree provided a stunning backdrop, and Lewis’ numerous outfit changes added an extra layer of glamour, each one reminiscent and as beautiful as a Quality Street chocolate. It adds up to an evening filled with enchantment, heartfelt moments, and Christmas spirit; the performance, though abbreviated, succeeded in capturing the essence of this time of year.

Leona Lewis + Akicita, Utilita Arena Cardiff, Fri 1 Dec

words JOHN EVANS photos CHRISTIE GOODWIN