The thing is people are no longer being taugh to project. So, plenty of young people with big voices still require mikes to be heard anywhere but the first row.
Projection doesn't require a big voice. What's most impressive, to me, is when a performer can sing a note softly and still makes it travel to the back of the house.
Just because you have a "big voice" doesn't mean you can project. I have a few friends like that.
Look at Mary Martin. No means a BIG VOICE, but one that could project.
Patti LuPone has a HUMONGOUS voice that she can project.
I love being technical!!!!
Some people paint, some people sew, I meddle.