Antony and the Johnsons

ONSTAGE AT Harlem's fabled Apollo Theatre, Antony Hegarty cuts an imposing figure. Swept along by a 20-piece orchestra, New York City's reigning demi-monde diva sobs epic tales of operatic sorrow and romantic rapture. Draped in a magnificent cream-coloured gown, the towering singer looks like an androgynous Statue of Liberty. Obscured by shadow for much of the performance, Hegarty sways as he sings, his tremulous voice channelling the spirit of Nina Simone. A ghostly angel of Harlem.