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M
ichael’s musical career developed further in 1993 when taking the role of "Tony" he made a recording of "West Side Story" with the London Philharmonic Orchestra. He released his second album "Always" which entered the UK charts at number three and remained in the top 20 for 10 weeks. The album was supported by a 30 date National Tour, once again playing to capacity houses, and at Christmas he conceived and directed his own "Christmas Special" performing in major regional theatres and in London.
I
t was during 1993 that Michael sang with Kiri Te Kanawa in front of a capacity audience at the National Indoor Arena and he launched his television show "Michael Ball". Six episodes were recorded with Carlton Television and his guests included The Bee Gees, Montserrat Caballe, Ray Charles, Gloria Estefan, Elaine Paige, Cliff Richard, Take That, Dionne Warwick and the late Tammy Wynette.

1994 saw the release of Michael’s third album "One Careful Owner" which swiftly went Gold. Michael narrated "The Cameron Mackintosh Story" for BBC Radio 2 as well as Guest DJ for their prime time show. The success of "Michael Ball" the television show lead to the recording of a second series which again attracted major stars including Larry Adler, James Brown, Shirley Bassey, Tony Bennett, Cher, Joe Cocker, Marcella Detroit, D-Ream, Erasure, Daryl Hall, Emy Lou Harris, Lulu, George Martin and Robert Palmer. Michael concluded a successful year with yet another sell out National Tour and the release of "The Best of Michael Ball" which gave Michael his 4th gold disc in 3 years.

1995 was taken up with one off performances including top billing in three major open air concerts in Exeter, Woburn Abbey and, along with the BBC Big Band, Ludlow Castle. He sung at the opening ceremonies of the European Youth Olympics in Bath and the Rugby World Cup at Twickenham and performed for HM The Queen at the VE Day 50th Anniversary concert in Hyde Park. He also sung a duet with Elaine Paige at the BBC Radio Music Live ’95 concert in Birmingham. Demand was such that he also performed concerts in Jersey, The Ulster Hall in Belfast and The Harrogate International Centre. Michael was invited to recreate the role of Marius for the 10th Anniversary Gala Concert of "Les Miserables" at the Royal Albert Hall, an invitation that he was thrilled with.
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