CHICAGO 8/28
Well, instead of the usual listing of song/order of songs, I thought I
would give a few personal reflections of last Friday.
- The security at the New World Music Theater (NWMT) hadn't received
any instructions regarding letting those in the first 8 rows up to the stage,
according to a beefy security meister I spoke with at apppox. 7:00 p.m. He said
they (security) pretty much followed the lead of the performer as far as
letting people approach the stage. By 3/4 through the show, with the immediate
stage area bulging with people, they pretty much closed off access to the
stage.
- I was in the 3rd row, piano side. When we approached our seats I
noticed a group (8-10) people who seemed to have all come together. Probably
connections to the venue, promoter, whatever. Anyway, one guy in this group was
taking $5.00 bets from everyone around him on what song would be sung first.
After inquiring whether anyone had chosen Circle of Life and being
told no, I placed my $5.00 in his hand and was In Like Flint. He paid off about
a minute into the song! So, I had enough money for another T-shirt. Just
because of Spoilers! Who'da thunk it? Just thought you all might like to start
a new pre-concert tradition. (is this ethical? do I care?)
- I rushed to the stage after GYBR and was rewarded with
Elton stopping pretty much in front of me. I offered up the
book I had brought for him to sign (ELTON JOHN:FIVE YEARS OF
FUN, ever here of it?) and he took it and signed away. That being
my goal for the night I was then forced to tolerate the remainder of the show
(just kidding). I moved back to my seat and enjoyed dancing and singing with my
wife, we now had almost the whole row free because everyone had moved to the
stage. I wish I had been able to meet up with one or two of you because I'm
sure I could have got you down there.
- The set list has been pretty well gone over, the band was ON and
sounding great. I don't mind Davey's fan-blown hair because it
makes me feel young.
- Oh, two more things, before the concert, my wife and I overheard the
couple behind us talking about their great 4th row seats. The guy was opining
as how these upfront seats must be radio give aways, corporate seats, yada,
yada, yada. I turned around and told him, conversationally, that I had gotten
my tickets the day they went on sale at Ticket master. I was just lucky. Well
this guy got his tickets the day of the show from his boss who helps maintain
the sound system at the venue. He just gave this guy his tickets. When it
became apparent that mostly everyone in the first five rows was going to stand
for the concert we heard several catcalls from behind us telling us to sit
down, and one of the more vocal yellers were these people who had gotten in for
nothing. (we remained on our feet)
- Many of you have inquired about the Citibank CD-Rom. Well thanks for
sticking with me through this spoiler and as a reward I will tell you. My wife
and I left as the first chords of Bennie were sounding through the
night air. I always leave the NWMT early because it is a traffic hell-hole. As
we made our exit, there was a kid/usher handing these coveted items out. It
didn't look as if they had that many at each station to hand out, many 2 small
boxes worth. So, I'm sure not many people got 'em Now here's your chance. I got
6 extra and will send you one for $5.00 (to cover mailing and buying the
mailing envelopes) if you e-mail me back. I'll need the address you want it
sent to. If you're lucky enough to see Elton soon and you
leave a little early, you to may find these CD-Roms waiting for you at the
door.
I missed seeing you guys.
Scott
Prima Donna, lord you should've been there
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