By Eric White

THIS weekend, theatre goers have the opportunity to join in on the celebration of the Carpenters music and the spirit of Karen Carpenter at the Rhodes Arts Complex.

Karen Carpenter had a unique voice, so unique in fact that it has proven almost impossible to duplicate.

Now for the very first time in over 30 years the voice that melted a thousand romantic hearts lives again through Toni Lee, in “We’ve Only Just Begun, the Carpenters Greatest Love Songs” which is coming to Bishop Stortford.

The life of Karen Carpenter was one of the most fascinating and yet also tragic stories in popular music history.

Tragic doesn’t quite describe the sadness of this and that it ended her life prematurely.  She died at the age of just 32 years.

Karen was the voice of the multi-hit making group The Carpenters, who along with her brother Richard, scored an unprecedented 17 consecutive billboard US top ten hits.

The quality of the Carpenters music makes it as relevant today as when they scored their first UK hit with Close to you in 1970.

“We’ve Only Just Begun” is a celebration of the Carpenters music and the spirit of Karen Carpenter.

Expect to hear all of the hits, brilliantly performed by vocalist Toni Lee, with her Big Band and singers.

“We’ve Only Just Begun” is at the Rhodes Arts Complex in Bishop’s Stortford on Saturday May 28th at 7.30pm.

Tickets are £22 and £20 for concessions.

To book call the Box Office on 01279 710 200 or go online at www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk

Watch the video below for a preview of what you can expect at the Rhodes: