Bass-baritone Teddy Tahu Rhodes and pianist and conductor Guy Noble are teaming up for a night of favourite arias and songs at City Recital Hall. The old friends tell Limelight about the pleasures of performing with a mate, the program’s highlights, and why live performance is an essential service.

Teddy Tahu Rhodes and Guy NobleGuy Noble and Teddy Tahu Rhodes. Photo © Keith Saunders

How long have you known each other and how did you first meet?

Guy Noble: I think I first met Ted when we recorded together with David Hobson for ABC Classic. I cannot remember the actual year, but over 13 years ago at least.

Teddy Tahu Rhodes: I feel like I’ve known Guy forever. We’ve always had such an easy and respectful friendship.

What do you enjoy about working together?

GN: It’s nice to perform with someone who is a friend. Performing is about ten percent work and 90 percent hanging around, so it’s good to spend that time with someone you can laugh with.

TTR: Guy is positive, fun and of course so talented that working together is always enjoyable. We’re friends first, colleagues second so we always enjoy ourselves.

What inspired the show...