This has been an amazing weekend in New Jersey – three shows in three days, all of them completely sold out! As I wrote last, the first show was at The Theatre at RVCC. This is always a wonderful experience for us. Working with Allan, Cindy, John, and the crew is a rewarding experience. And the audience is so appreciative. This is one of our favorite places to perform.
Last night, we were at the Count Basie Theatre in Red Bank, NJ. We were also completely sold out in this venue. And when the curtains opened for the first illusion, the crowd went wild! They were so enthusiastic and their applause and support rang through this beautiful, old vaudeville theatre. The first half of the show went so quickly (in our minds) and the second half went just as fast! Before I could even say good night, the audience was on their feet applauding and cheering. It was very humbling and a memorable moment.
The Walking Through A Wall continues to get tremendous reaction. Last night, the were just as responsive to Windshear and No Feet and the Water Escape and the Trip Around The World…each and every illusion! After the show, the lobby was packed with people and I had the chance to talk and listen to their favorite effect and so much more.
Cindy and I had some friends at this show as well. Justin and Jason Senft always have such wonderful surprises for us when we are able to catch up with them on the road. They sent this picture to me of the Count Basie marquee.
Bill Jarvis and his wife were also at the show. Bill is a remarkable individual with just as remarkable a story. You definitely need to check out his website and read about his recovery from a devastating accident. We didn’t have the chance to spend time with them but we definitely hope our paths will cross again.
It was absolutely incredible to see an old friend we haven’t seen in a very long time – Randy Levin. His life has taken him on an fascinating journey. We met when he was a comedian on the college circuit. Today, he is an English teacher, director of theatre, a writer…and a proud father of twins. He has a novel coming out very soon. You should check out his website while you’re at it! Cindy and I didn’t have as much time to visit with him as we would have liked but look forward to the chance to look back, share fond memories, and catch up on events in our lives. I am looking forward to that time together!
This afternoon, we had a 3pm matinee performance at the Bergen Performing Arts Center in Englewood. We arrived very early (had to get up at 5:30am but didn’t get to bed until after 12midnight) at the theatre to find the local IATSE crew on the stage and working hard. We were told very early in the day that this show was also sold out – and had been for more than 3 weeks. It was one of those bitter sweet moments to hear the phones ringing or see people come to the box office to buy “just two tickets” and have nothing available. Not a single seat.
Once the show started, we knew we had another very special audience. We’re also concerned about those afternoon crowds. Most of the time, they’ve been to church, had a big lunch and now they just want to sit back and watch a show. NOT this crowd! They were ready to participate and those who did come on stage, were excellent and made the magic so much more entertaining for those who knew them. A standing ovation…and a packed lobby ended our performance at BergenPAC. We look forward to the opportunity to perform here again!
This show also had some very special friends in attendance. Mr. Craig Neier and his family were there. The lobby was so busy for autographs that we didn’t have the chance to visit after the show (he had to rush off). He was kind to call and send an email – very thoughtful.
After we loaded out, we walked across the street and had some of our favorite food – THAI! After dinner, we drove to the hotel (where we are now) to get some much needed rest!!!
So, we wrap up three days in New Jersey and, in spite of the lack of sleep we’ve gotten these last few days, Cindy, Keith and Nolan did an outstanding job! Now we head to North Carolina….