Although I had not anticipated the thrill of watching Chris Botti from the orchestra pit back in September, I had been anxiously, anticipating the Celtic Thunder concert for several months. Pledge drive arrived in June '09, and I was on the phone the first morning guaranteeing that I had my ticket for the November concert. That first conversation began my volunteering with PBS, and got me a ticket to see Celtic Thunder. Having loved Celtic music for years it wasn't hard to become a fan of five handsome men singing some of my favorite music, but the variety of talent these men have, and each a great in his own genre, only adds to the value, charisma, and character of the group. Paul Byrom, and his classic opera stylings send shivers of delight down any listeners spine. George Donaldson's upbeat, yet ofttimes sentimental, and inspiring folk tunes bring a smile to your face and a tear to your eye. Damian McGinty offers the audience sheer delight and thoughts of "yesteryear" with his classic oldies, Keith Harkin's genuine surfer style produces the ideal setting for both traditional Irish tune and original work, and Ryan Kelly's energetic pop hits make you once again remember why good girls fall for the bad boys. Watching individual performances could present initial misgivings at the ability of these five performers to blend as well for the group numbers, yet the perfect harmonization, and brilliant dynamics in their rousing performances of Caledonia, Irelands Call, Take Me Home and many others illustrate the phenomenal musicality of the group as a unit. The CT band is just as much fun to watch as listen to as they interact with one another and the singers. Entertainment value of the show is truly immeasurable as George, Paul, Ryan, Keith and Damian smoothly transition through each song with growing energy and exuberance. The stage and audience is alive with laughter, as the performers react to one another and the audience as well. Celtic Thunder has been significantly surprised at their own success, but to see a show you could hardly doubt that these men still have a great deal more coming to them. They remain ever gracious and appreciative of their fans and still as altruistic as they were before the fame.
The meet and greet while sadly brief and a bit cramped was enjoyable to survey and I managed to grab a few fun pictures for the books. George and Damian were complete gentlemen to the fortunate meet and greet guests, signing autographs and giving hugs to each and every star struck PBS member. I can't say I wasn't a bit star struck myself but the job at hand kept me on the sidelines. Looking forward to seeing what the future has in store for this dynamic and immensely talented group! Hope you fellow PBS members enjoy the pictures! Look for me at future events and you'll be sure to find more fun memories captured on film and posted here!
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