It’s ages since I’ve been to a gig… the last one was the Sabres, my husband’s band, and before that it was the Mavericks… and the Mavericks, oh and another couple of gigs, by the Mavericks.
The anticipation is always lurking, as you check the tour list, as you pick up rumours and whispers, as you hear or read comments in interviews with the band… and then suddenly you see the tour list with the name you want and a do-able destination! Sometimes a friend has emailed or texted you, or messaged you, or maybe you’re the first to know and the planning begins. Look at the dates, check the calendar, book the tickets – the best tickets you can whatever the cost! Arrangements for getting to the gig, or accommodation can wait until later – plenty of time for that, the important thing is the tickets, front row if you can! Obviously a lot of liaison goes on with chums, but sometimes it’s a solo thing, you have to just do it yourself and go alone… not as good as being with friends, but still brilliant.
As the date (or dates if you’re lucky) approaches plans have to be firmed up, but other decisions have to be made… what clothes to wear, do I need a haircut (usually yes) should I try and start a desperate diet (usually no) messages are exchanged with friends, conversations on the phone, on-line, even Skyping! The anticipation mounts, the expectation grows… and sometimes there is a tiny-weeny dread that maybe it won’t be as good as last time… Banish those thoughts!
The day is here! Rendezvous with over-excited chums, but you’re pretty over-excited yourself! Then the getting ready… Maybe other friends are here too, so texts are exchanged arrangements to meet before the show, maybe even eat together – certainly a drink… a glass of wine maybe, a Czech beer, a cocktail…
And then you’re at the venue and the excitement is almost too much to bear… you feel as nervous as if you were going to perform… And then…. and then….
There is nothing better than going to a gig!!
Lois Elsden 