That's Entertainment Meet and Greet

While staff, executives, and board members were celebrating the launch of the new re-branding of Channel 9 the weekend of October 12th, 2010, Celtic Thunder Fans were once again thrilled to see George, Ryan, Paul, Keith, Damian and recently added Neil, back in St Louis. If you have had the chance to read through any of my previous blogs, you're well aware that I'm a fan of Celtic Thunder. So, you won't be surprised to hear that I offered to help out during the meet and greet. The location and timing of the meet and greet this year was a big improvement. The Fox Theater has such a colorful history, and hides many secrets beyond what the average theater goer will experience. The talent who have graced the stage of the Fox have been the best of the best, and pieces of their stories remain. Celtic Thunder joins great's such as, Nat King Cole, Haley Mills, Liberace, Bob Hope, Tommy Dorsey, Glen Miller, Frank Zappa, the Grateful Dead, and Chris Botti.

Our Meet & Greet took place in the Fox theater's screening room. We were led into the main auditorium then down a flight of stairs behind the customer service desk. I couldn't help but stop to stare at the signed pictures of Baryshnikov and Gregory Hines on the way down. Tables and chairs were available, as well as some light refreshments for members to enjoy while they waited. And the name of the game is always waiting. I had the chance to visit with a few of the attendees that night, many familiar faces as well as some I hadn't seen before. One family brought their two daughters who are big Damian fans. The older daughter had broken both of her arms a couple of weeks prior, but it didn't keep her from showing up in a precious and elegant silver dress that matched her sisters. What a joy to watch their excitement! I doubt she minded the casts after Damian signed them. I have a feeling they'll both remember that night well.

The platinum level members were finally treated to a visit by Damian and Keith an hour before showtime. All ready to appear on stage they both came charging into the room and were greeted by a roar of applause. Everyone agreed the wait was worth it. I won't bore you with details of autographs, photos and giddy ladies, but needless to say everyone was pleased with the event. The performance that followed was an even greater treat, with a brand new line up of songs. These talented men treated the audience to their own renditions of a few traditional irish tunes during the first half, then the audience clapped, laughed, cried, and sang along to the now familiar songs from, It's Entertainment.Celtic Thunder continues to grow in popularity and it's not difficult to see why, these young men are not only professionals in their field, but they bring so much to the stage. Personality, energy, humor, and a love of performing all make a Celtic Thunder performance an experience and not simply a concert.

If you're interested in learning more you can visit www.celticthunder.ie, or keep your eyes on Channel 9 during their current pledge drive and you may catch a glimpse of their Christmas show that was performed during the second leg of their recent fall tour. They'll be back in St Louis again next fall with another brand new show, and I'll be there to make sure you hear all about it!

That's all from your eccentric Channel 9 cheerleader. Thanks for tuning in, and keep on givin'!!