On stage with Bocelli: Andrea Lykke’s diary from her European debut tour

For rising Danish mezzo-soprano singer Andrea Lykke, it was the kind of invitation that feels too surreal to be true: to join Andrea Bocelli on stage for a trio of stadium shows across Europe. Her debut came on May 31st in Leiria, Portugal, in front of over 26,000 people – a night that marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey. From there, the tour continued to Poznań and Wrocław in Poland, each performance building on the magic of the last.

In this exclusive photo diary, Lykke takes us behind the scenes – from final fittings in Copenhagen with Jesper Høvring to backstage rehearsals with Bocelli himself. Candid, heartfelt and occasionally starstruck, her entries reveal the nerves, glamour, and sheer joy of performing alongside a living legend.

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Here, in her own words, Andrea Lykke shares the unforgettable moments that shaped her European debut with Andrea Bocelli.

"A few days before Portugal, I’m at Jesper Høvring’s studio in Copenhagen for the final fitting. The gown is slowly taking shape, each detail stitched with care and intention."

"Beneath the glamour – layers of fabric, focus, and last-minute adjustments."

"Naturally, we had to do a little photoshoot in the finished dress. I feel completely at ease in it – more than happy with how it turned out. There’s a sense of calm now that everything fits just right. As I’m looking in the mirror, it suddenly feels real. Not gonna lie, the butterflies are already kicking in."

"First day in Leiria – here I am on the steps in front of our beautiful hotel. The travel went smoothly: I met up with my manager early and made it through the airport in one piece – dress and jewellery intact. Success. It’s really warm here, and we’re planning to explore a bit and grab something to eat. Tonight, we rehearse with the symphony orchestra and choir. There’s still some uncertainty about whether Andrea Bocelli will be there, but I’m honestly just excited to meet the whole team."

"Just me again – posing in front of a beautiful church while sightseeing around town."

"Rehearsals are done, and I’m so happy. Andrea Bocelli didn’t attend, but they’re trying to arrange a meeting before showtime – maybe we’ll even get to sing together beforehand. I really hope so… it would make stepping on stage with him for the first time feel a little less nerve-racking."

"We’ve just arrived at the venue and I had a moment to step onto the stage. Soaking it all in before 26,000 people fill the seats tonight. I can’t believe this is really happening."

"And here he is. Or rather, here we are. In Andrea Bocelli’s dressing room, singing an Italian duet before I head to makeup and get ready for the show. The chemistry was great, and I’m feeling a lot less nervous now."

"Face in the making... finished off with a touch of gloss, of course!"

"The final look: A soft glam moment with classic winged liner, glowing skin, and just enough drama for the stage. Hair kept timeless and elegant – the slightly princess-like look I was going for. I think it complements Jesper Høvring’s gown perfectly. Earrings by Dulong Fine Jewelry."

"My manager caught this moment just as I was walking onto the stage. Just look at that crowd – 26,000 people waiting in their seats. Strangely, I didn’t feel that nervous in that moment. I could actually take it all in… and enjoy it."

"A smiling Andrea Bocelli after our performance. It went beyond anything I could’ve hoped for, and I’m incredibly proud and happy. A huge moment in my career – one I know I’ll look back on when I’m old! Haha. More adventures to come, and I can’t wait."