Pechanga Symphony Review

[lisalover7 (LL7)]

                                                            1 for the Money, 2 for the show, 3 to get ready and 4, 5, 6 to Go!

                                                                    Symphony Tour 2011 Dec 1, 2, 3 Pechanga, CA

As I deal with the usual hangover after a CW show…those that know me can understand, I write the first of a 3 part review. Anything the girls say will be in Red.

Day 1
My day started at school as it has all semester long, working on a project that’s due in a week. Planning a CW festival the weekend before finals might not have been the smartest choice. I finished up my work and realized that I forgot my GPS. Her name is Emily not to be confused with the great Emily Smith So, my plan to save time by leaving from school was shot and I drove back home to pick it up. I also got gas which was a blessing because I burned through a quarter tank with the commuting. This was a weekend of many firsts, and it started with the calm before the storm. Normally about 3 days before the show I’m already wired. Due to my crazy schedule I couldn’t pencil in “Get excited for CW” but I knew I would be in spirit about an hour before the show.

Emily is wonderful when she works and a pain when she doesn’t. Offended I forgot her I had a heck of a time finding Kilarney’s where everyone was meeting before the show. I got to see old friends, make new ones and of course finally talk to Scott face to face. He is a sage on CW if I ever met one. We talked of our travels and where we wanted to go, I’ve never seen the east coast and Scott had never seen the west. Then we left the pub to meet back up at the casino. Personally I think this place is like an arcade. Lights flashing and music coming from the machines, it could have been Chuck E. Cheese except for the smoking.

Waiting outside the theater I acted as paparazzi with my high end camera. It really was a bummer I couldn’t take pictures to have just for myself. I could have even shot in HD but I was good and followed the rules and didn’t take and video or pictures. Didn’t get the group picture I wanted but the nice thing about having multiple shows was that I could get it the next night. By this point Rachel had returned the posters I lent her months ago and had one heck of a time getting them out of the canister, and ended up just ripping it open. I also nabbed a theater brochure, with all that and a backpack and camera I was having difficulties holding it all. Getting the tickets out of my wallet was easy enough I just hoped the one I pulled out was for the correct night. Once in the lobby of the theater it was a mad rush at the merchandise table. There were CDs and DVDs, programs, tree ornaments and bunch of other stuff. “Ooo Carol of Bells, Christmas Pipes, Christmas Pipes, OOOO CHRISTMAS PIPES!!! GREEN THE WHOLE YEAR ROUND!! Granuaile’s Dance! LET IT SNOW!! Ding Dong Merrily On High! SPANISH LADY SPANISH LADY SPANISH LADY!” Scott said, “This is going to be a great show.” Needless to say I was happy with the choices. I was also quite thrilled to see the Christmas greetings in the girls hand writing. “We can see what their penmanship is like!”

After I bought a program (which was our set list preview) I was all ready to head into the show. Scott had me on the reins; we had an hour and didn’t need to rush. I just wanted to find my seat and put my stuff down. Rachel said, “I thought you were done being a pack rat.” I said, “Well it’s a lot better than the last show and partially your fault cause now I have posters to deal with too.” We stated to make our way into the theater and I saw attendants everywhere. Now it might have just been me but they didn’t seem the friendliest to a poster carrying noise making fan. I was like “Oh ya you need to see my ticket.” The older woman asked, “Do you know where your seat is?” “Yes, 112 AA.” “That’s on up front.” I thought to myself I know exactly where it is, can I pass without hassle I’ve been dying to use this poster for months. I found the seat just fine. The stage was high and I was bummed not to see the entire stage but happy I wouldn’t see the girl’s shoes all night long. I was so grateful to be sitting next to fellow forum members, Katherine and her husband who came in from Utah. If they traveled that far I knew they understood my craziness if they didn’t express themselves in the same manor.

The Venue: Not crazy big, not too small either, two projectors on either side of the stage (just like school lecture halls), red chairs with holey cup holders that weren’t big enough for my water bottle, a huge barricade to prevent me rushing the stage, and all the Christmas cheer decorations. The stage had hanging lights, like icicles, and the palate was in the red, green, purple, pink and blue hues. Turning around from the front, it was a fairly packed room before the show started.

Prior to show starting I bounced around a lot (I actually liked Mikey and Rachel’s seats cause they could see the whole thing.) But front row came with some benefits as well. Over the sound system I got excited to hear Michael Buble, and some good oldies too, Brown Eyed Girl etc. I had issues with all my buttons but finally got them on my lanyard. “How much time do we got?”  “Ten minutes.” Just a few minutes after that there was excitement as Rachel spotted Mairead in the wings.

Act 1

The band had been warming up at this point and I had fun identifying each instrument that was playing although I could not visually see them. Then the orchestra did the signature tune that signifies the show is about to start. The conductor stepped out onto the stage and took his place at the podium. They played a nice rendition of Believe and all through the number I was waiting for the girls to come out at various cues in the music. I don’t think they could have made a better tease. The first part was only instrumental, it was lovely but I was in the mind that I had come to see the girls and wanted them now. After they finished, another first: David Downes himself walked on to the stage. Pretty sure I could have wet myself at that moment. I had no way to verbally express my gratitude from the audience.Not long after he introduced himself and the show, the girls were introduced. It was so wonderful to see them again and I realized how much I missed them. Especially my Lisa Kelly.

Now throughout the whole show I knew some of the songs that were in it but no idea what order. It became a guessing game and how fast my ear could pick up if I knew the song or if it was something new. I figure now it took about 3 seconds on average for each song.

Carol of Bells was so hard to sing along to! They encouraged the audience to sing all evening and of course I did my best so I started strong on this one. The first thing I noticed was that without a choir I was filling in the role. I was still singing choir parts without the choir there. A great piece to start off what would be a promising night. It was nice, as they surveyed the crowd to get the first smiles of the night.

Silent Night wasn’t all in English so I had a hard time singing along. After the group number Lisa and Lil Lambe left and Chloe had a solo with Mairead accompaniment

For White Christmas Lisa and Lil Lambe came back on and they spoke the first of many times that evening. They said we had no excuse not to sing along because everyone knew the music. They also said that they would cut us a break for Carol of Bells because of how fast the lyrics were. Lisa said on Facebook she was nervous and you could tell. Bless her heart she had a slow start on White Christmas her low notes weren’t quite on form, it could have been first show jitters, the recent pregnancy, or a not warm enough voice but I was worried the high notes might be affected to. Nope I love Lisa because of those beautiful peaks. By the next song she was almost dead on with pitch. She’s right Chloe probably has perfect pitch. I would argue it was Chloe’s best night of the three vocally. I was totally dreaming of a White Christmas because mine are nonexistent.

Away in A Manger was Lil Lambe’s first solo, and proved to me how good a singer she really is.  Not a favorite but I was impressed. I will also note that throughout the performances she really added a flavor to the show. She is very fun and playful onstage with the other girls and solidifies that this is the best group combination yet.

Similar to Carol of Bells, Ding Dong was a mouthful. With all the songs something about the live version changed them. The arrangements were different so that Lisa K. would sing a different part. Lisa L. would sing a part that Chloe sang. I think this was the song where I got a Lisa K. “aren’t you cute” smile. I think my first S.O. of the evening (I gave them fairly mind).

Then Lisa introduced The Christmas Song. She was positively adorable. She said she loved Christmas since she was a kid, “I’m 34 I’m willing to admit it I’m the first one up on Christmas morning.” What can I say, she received applause before singing of course it’s a famous song but I clapped just cause it was Lisa. She does my favorite rendition of this song hands down. She was well warmed up, and less jittery for sure. I think this was also where I could see the faintest baby bump.

I got good use of my fiddler crossing sign during Shenandoah and the Butterfly and Mairead was well Mairead. She was all over the place working the crowd; I got a few mischievous looks if I’m not mistaken.

Little Drummer Boy was then introduced by Lisa and Chloe “This is Chloe’s favorite; they all are Chloe’s favorite.” I was in agreement. It’s one of my favorites too. The drummer was shy and in the background and they had to pull him out to center stage. Chloe said, “This side of Christmas is good Andy.” I flashed back to the special with the cool surprise entrance of Orla and Chloe. Didn’t get that with this but I pretended. It wasn’t long before I was drumming along to the song. I’m such a drummer at heart. When you sing and drum along to a song it’s bound to get a few smiles. I was always looking for Lisa but she is good at making sure she smiles at all the people so I was extra happy when we made contact. Chloe is just awesome at smiling, waving and blowing kiss to familiar fans.  

CHRISTMAS PIPES
This is my favorite Christmas Song and it’s because of them. Before it was Little Drummer Boy but they had just done that one. This has instrumental interlude so I was listening hard for what it would be. As soon as I figured it out all heck broke loose. Seriously it was on. Again had to sing the nonexistent choir part. I love this song will always love this song and am so happy and pleased I finally got to see it live.

They introduced Danny Boy and it’s a good song, it’s true to them  and I will never be disappointed seeing this song. Although since viewing the Muppets version when they started singing, “der peeps der peeps” ran through my head. They made me really like it and although it’s not an absolute favorite I have immense respect for this song.

Oh Holy Night. Scott had the money on this one and he was so right. I love when Lisa solos the high note however Chloe joined her for the live version. On “in grateful chorus raise we” I always have to try really hard not to say reindeer. By mid song I got a little emotive, I didn’t cry but I coulda. That end is just fantastic, breathtaking. It is truly amazing when they not only meet but exceed your expectations. I gave a well deserved S.O. and most if not all of the audience joined in. Without even realizing it we were at the end of the first act.

Intermission

At intermission I talked to a guy who had been lurking among the garland in front of the stage with a video camera. “What is this, for the projector?” “No, this is for their archives, so they can see what works and what they need to tweak or fix.” I looked over the barrier, “What kind of camera is it?” “It’s a canon, it’s just a canon...” “I thought it might be an HMC-150, that’s what we use at school.” I then had a great time talking video/film production jargon with the guy. It was so cool to talk to someone actually in the business. He noted the difficulties of the following and cues. “Ya, Mairead moves around a lot. She likes to go up and down the stage.” I also talked to forum members on the break. I swear intermission is like half time for me. “You and Emily on Christmas Pipes.” Commented Donna. I love how often Emily and I end up in a sentence together. As soon as the band cued the start of the second act I got a bout of horrible separation anxiety. I only had the last half of the show left. But when my focus is only on the girls in the moment all of it, even the jitters of the live show I always have, go away.

[lisalover7 (LL7)]

Act 2

The first instrumental is a fun Christmas song that unfortunately I don’t know the name of. In the Bleak Midwinter is a gorgeous piece Mairead does, I can’t describe how wonderful it is to the ears.The First Noel is a song I love but funny enough don’t know all the words too. Before Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas the girls chatted about their favorite parts of Christmas. Lisa asked David what would be his, he said, “A grand piano.” For Green The Whole Year Round Lisa taught the audience the song, but me being the nutty Lisa fan raised my hand and said, “I already know it.” “Oh you do!” And she giggled. Granualie’s Dance is the one that started it all for me so I get really into it especially at the high point of the song. I  got a big Mairead smile and loved every minute of it. Auld Lang Syne was a song I didn’t know very well except the first part. Lil Lambe told us to cross our arms holding hands and sway to the music during the chorus. As I was doing it I wasn’t every really sure I did it correctly. Ave Maria was the opera song of the night. Chloe was amazing. The entire crowd was simply enthralled with this piece. You Raise Me Up was great as always. It’s my favorite CW song. And it got better with each progressing night. The crowd was roaring by the end of it and I yell “Finally!” and jump up on feet and held the poster up. “That is what I’m talking about.” And threw in a \m/ that would have made Emily and Kasey proud. They were on fire and the show was fantastic. O Come All Ye Faithful was crazy good too. It was the end of the show and the numbers were just better and better as the girls got more and more comfortable. The only downside to the first night was having to wait in between the songs for the girls back on. I was worried it would just end and I wouldn’t know it. But the crowd kept clapping and they came back on. Let It Snow! I was waiting for Chloe to say you tell ‘em Lise, but she didn’t. It is probably one of the most fun songs in the entire show. At the end they all whispered: “Let it snow.” We had to work so hard to get them on for Spanish Lady and as they came back I was waving them over. I pointed to indicate that they were supposed to stay on stage. I danced in my seat for Spanish Lady. Lisa even said to make sure to get the shoulder shrug in. It was fabulous and the night couldn’t have ended any better.

I must make a huge note: At the end of the show the camera guy I talked to gave me the list of all the songs in the show. I held it in disbelief. I had in my hands the official set list. It even had stool cues. It was like getting an autograph.

After the show most of the forum peeps went to Denny’s. I would have enjoyed going but my commute back was long and I wanted to get home to bed. I wanted to be rested enough for my next show. It was a good thing I did because on the way back I missed my exit and had to take the windiest road home. Of course Emily challenged my skills by turning off half way home. Exhausted I went to bed and attempted to fall asleep as moments from the show floated in my head.

[lisalover7 (LL7)]

Day 2: Another first…a day 2!

For going to bed so late I was displeased to get consciousness at about 6 am the next morning. Mr. Sun wasn’t even up yet. I got up and felt the showings of a small CW hangover. I had school to get to so my mind was yet again in two places. I was emotionally tired after that night so I wasn’t all there for class. Luckily it’s a speech class so all I had to do was practice my British dialect.

I got to Pechanga around 4 and Mikey, Rachel, and Scott picked me up to head to the restaurant for dinner. We initially planned for Olive Garden but ended up going to Red Lobster. I didn’t mind one bit because it’s one of my favorite restaurants. I got my favorite dish, shrimp cocktail, as the waitress went around to take our orders it was a lot of, “Would you like this or that. Now or when others come.” I was like I don’t care just bring me food! I may not have had the best etiquette but I was okay to break the rules my grandmother had thrust on me. Cards went around the table and I composed my note to David Downes. It was hard because I didn’t quite know how to phrase how much his work meant to me. In the end I got all said, and then signed the other cards being passed around the table for Lisa and Mairead. On our way back to Pechanga, Rachel and I practiced our Christmas Pipes and Ding Dong Merrily on High because we were having issues with the lyrics.

We got to the theater and I walked in with Rachel so we could surprise Cindy. I held up my “LL7 <3’s LK” poster to hide my face. It was so great meeting Jeremy and Cindy. She was so sweet and I loved her thick East Texas accent. I also met her other son Josh. It was wonderful to just be able to chat with the group even if we were a bit of a road block. Somehow having Cindy there put me at ease, it could also be the fact that it was the second show so I was better prepared. I actually paced myself when it came to the cheering. Once in my seat I looked back and saw that Cindy was sitting just a few rows back from me. I tried to talk to her but she couldn’t hear me.

Act 1

The very first thing I noticed was that I wasn’t trembling like a little dog but a lot more calm and at ease. The music began and it was beautiful, I can’t get over how well the orchestra plays. Early on I tried lifting my head and looks to see how high Katherine’s head was. “You can’t see a thing can you?” “No, not really…” I edged up in the seat so my head was at the same height as Katherine’s. “I got a violin and a cello.” Again I’m so blessed to have front row center, but I just couldn’t see the band. This is where my height was hindering. Great for travel, I never bump my head, but if I want to see something I usually have to stand on tip toe.

David introduced himself and the show again (for the people who hadn’t been there the day before). The mic copped out as he was talking, “I have no mic oh well I’ll just keep going then…” But it came right back on. I was thrilled when he brought out the girls and cheered and held up a 2 for the second night. It was obvious Lisa was more at ease and the show over all had a more relaxed feel. Some stuff I liked better the first night other songs I thought were better the second night. The crowd was at its best for sure.

I was surprised to get a wink from Lisa during White Christmas. I think she might have known it was my first time going to back to back shows. I know I’m gonna sound a little like Cindy here but I just love my Lisa girl. I <3 Ding Dong and the last two nights with a tired and worn voice sang with Lisa on the lower parts. I liked the Christmas song better the first night and I think it was just cause it was the first time I heard Lisa solo live for awhile.  Little Drummer Boy Chloe dedicated to Jeremy, probably one of the sweetest moments of the night. As Chloe sang, “Baby Jesu…” I pointed to Lisa who was looking and mouthed “baby”. I gave an S.O. after Christmas Pipes. It’s my favorite and I showed it. Had the exact same thought at the exact same moment the second night with Danny Boy, “der peeps der peeps”. I liked Oh Holy Night better the first night, but this time I knew it meant the end of the of first act and pouted a bit.

Intermission

During the intermission I got very chatty and excitable. We confirmed green grow the rushes oh on Atlanta. Looking back it was a blur of happy. I discussed with Scott the overall show and we were in agreement the girls were more relaxed. I said I liked some stuff better that night versus the first.

Act 2
Bleak Midwinter was lovely as ever. I always get excited when Lisa comes on the stage and it is super present with First Noel. On the second night for Have Yourself Lisa asked John the conductor what he would like, “Probably an orchestra, you must have a big house!” This song is such a lovely song and so quiet and pretty. Lisa came and taught the audience again the chorus and had thought, didn’t we do this last night? I’m pretty sure I got it. And Lisa asked, “Who sang to the last song?” I raised my hand straight in the air once again. As soon as she said the word at Atlanta I yelled, "Green grow the rushes oh." and felt like the only one saying it. Graunilaes Dance Mairead was amazing. I didn’t get a trademark smile but she was all Pixie. She had the look from Slane and it was fabulous. 3 times she leaned in and gave the “Pray for mercy from Mairead Nesbitt look” The energy was infectious. Auld Lang Syne was good the first night, a lot better the second. The only line I knew was “Should old acquaintances be forgot.” But Lil Lambe sang it so pretty. It was also much more moving the second night. I wasn’t sure I had done the hand holding right but she said that you cross arms. I held my arms in an x formation to confirm I was doing it right. The second night it was harder to do because in addition to being short I have short arms. But swaying to the music it was so wonderful. Lil Lambe said mid song, “This is beautiful.” I looked over my shoulder and she was right. Here I was with my friends seeing my favorite group and swaying with the sea of people. Magical. Ave Maria was probably the biggest difference the second night. Chloe was stunning and the S.O. began early and lasted awhile even as the other girls came out we were still cheering for Chloe. Lisa touched her elbow and gave a nod of agreement. Mairead then said the next song was one that had been with them from the beginning. “Do you know what it is?” “You raise me up!” “No it’s not Jingle Bells.” I burst out in laughter and had to take time to recover. Mairead pointed to me and said, “You were right, it’s you raise me up.” Let it Snow was better the second night. A lot more playful and the night before I anticipated Chloe saying, “You tell ‘em Lise.” But she didn’t and it was too late for me to say it. The second night I knew she wouldn’t say it so as Lisa sang, “And my dear we’re still good buyin’” I yelled as loud as I could, “YOU TELL ‘EM LISE!”

As I hung on the stage barricade waiting for them to come back to do Spanish Lady, the crowd applause slowed I looked back thinking we gotta keep clapping and then the lights came up. I was like wait, wait what about Spanish Lady. I mixed up that they were doing Let it Snow first. So I thought they would be coming back. “Happy Holidays” “Happy Holidays” I yelled back thinking we would dance one more time. Nope. As it hit me that it was over now, I began tearing up. I had never been to a show where they didn’t have Spanish Lady. I wasn’t the only one disappointed. But I went to the set list I was given, “Spanish Lady* **ONLY PLAYED as 2nd ENCORE IF REQUIRED***” It puzzled me because it was in the program. Jeremy consoled me and said, “It’s okay. Don’t cry over spilt milk, which I have done before.” Scott wisely said, “There’s always tomorrow night.” There it hit how much I friggin’ love Spanish Lady.

If I didn’t end the night with Spanish Lady, how did I end it you may ask? Well I guess it’s lucky but Tommy came out on stage in street clothes and was chatting with a few audience members. I love his accent so much. Then he generously signed autographs and answered our burning questions. He said Mairead was over the moon about her marriage that he didn’t go because it was in Hawaii but they watched online. He said after the show he was going to enjoy a beer at a bar close to the casino. I thought he deserved that and more. Then if you can believe it the conductor himself also came on stage in street clothes. He too signed autographs. I didn’t want to push my luck as security wanted up to clear the theater but I got to give him a warm “Thank You.” I couldn’t wait to see him the next day.

Once again forum peeps were grouped outside the theater; they were headed to Denny’s again that night. I once again had to get home as it was even later then the first night. “You’re coming to the showing right?” I thought he was talking about the documentary, “the special on TV. You gotta come. At least consider it.” I was and would, it was an opportunity not to be missed but I thought that 3 shows and a viewing might be a bit much. I knew I was at least going to see the documentary made. And enjoy time with them after the show. My drive home was smoother, I didn’t miss my junction, but I was definitely more tired. I knew going home I would want to switch seats so I could see the show as a whole. Who wouldn’t want to trade with me for front row?

[lisalover7 (LL7)]

Day 3 My first afternoon with CW

Words cannot describe what happened on this day. I’ll do my best.

I was going to meet up with the crew at In-N-Out but was late so we decided to just meet at the parking structure again. I got there about one and they still hadn’t left. By one thirty I was bored sitting in my car. I had messed around with my phone, made a tidbit episode of Silly Talk, texted and then was out of ideas. Then I remembered I had my program and had yet to read it. That entertained me until the rest got there. Rachel had texted me to go ahead in the casino but I wanted to finish reading. “I thought you were going inside.” “I decided to read my program.” So we all walked into together. Jeremy said, “I got my walking buddy back.”

We waited outside the theater for everyone to meet up. This was quite a fest and I hadn’t even realized it. Cindy got there last as she was in the car putting her face on. Poor Jeremy was allergic to the tobacco so he went into the theater as soon as he had his ticket. Scott volunteered to switch seats with me. I knew he would really enjoy front row. We got the cards and presents delivered to Lisa and Mairead. We tried to arrange green grow the rushes oh again because it didn’t quite work the first time. I being really loud was shushed by Rachel. “They can probably hear you.” Oh, “I LOVE YOU LISA! I LOVE CELTIC WOMAN! I LOVE MAIREAD!” We spotted Mairead in the wings again and like complete goofy balls waved and smiled. She saw and smiled back.

The best part of the new seat was that I could sit on my feet and get a decent view of the stage. The downside was that I was more isolated among people I didn’t know, who wouldn’t understand what the heck I was doing throughout the show. I also saw more of the audience, and the security guard was in my peripherals. Sometimes having minor ADD can be annoying…The first three seats in front of me remained empty. I was okay for most of the show, especially when the guard was out of my line of vision, and when I wasn’t adjusting myself in the seat. That night it was great to get a different perspective, it felt less like a re-run. I advise anyone that 2 nights in a row is good but do 3 and it might become a bit stale. Even front row. But that was probably the biggest thing I missed. It took longer for them to find me in the crowd because I wasn’t dead in front of them. I got to see a whole heck of a lot more and that was the goal.

Act 1
I got chills listening to Believe for the last time. Such a gorgeous piece even 3 nights running. The chills continued through Carol of Bells. As David introduced the girls I waved like a complete dork. I thought, I’m over here tonight Scott has my seat! I could actually sing along decently to Silent Night after hearing it for three nights in a row. As the girls came back on my joy for seeing Lisa never changed. I loved that she was on the left side most of the night so unlike the first too where I had to be good and attempt to give everyone equal attention I had no shame in watching her for most of the night. During Ding Dong as I sang with Lisa she looked my way a few times I though ya I’m singing your part with you. I got to see Lisa’s back for most of the Christmas Song on the last night, but that meant I could also see the whole of her dress. A beautiful red sash was tied around her waist. Boy can Lisa belt this song. As if I haven’t said it enough I love love love her. Little Drummer was not dedicated to Jeremy again and I could just feel for him. I drummed a little the third night but not as much as the first and second. I had enough distractions without adding myself in the mix. When Christmas Pipes started playing I quietly chanted to myself happily “Christmas Pipes, Christmas pipes, Christmas pipes, Christmas pipes” Lisa and Chloe could see my excitement even though I was far left. I can’t get enough of this song. I told Scott that if he was to take my spot he had to fill my roll and start the S.O. for Christmas Pipes. He did and I was up as fast as I could be. He said that they genuinely deserved it, I was like of course. Then “der peeps der peeps” and Oh Holy Night. I probably pouted the most on this one the last night. It was really coming to a close. I felt that it went to fast. But if possible the second night felt like it went even faster. By the third night I really just wanted Lisa to solo the fall on your knees part. It still had the biggest impact on me the first night but I would say it was still awe inspiring the third night. With that it was time for intermission.

Intermission

I walked back over to where everyone was glad to be in familiar company. I talked with Cindy, Jeremy and Scott again because this was our last day together. I knew by my feelings I would be staying for the viewing of the new show but hadn’t fully made up my mind yet. As I was talking Rachel handed me a water bottle, the camera guy wants me to give this too you. “Oh why?” Rachel thought he liked me, in my head I was like no I talked to him the first night. I didn’t get a chance to chat with him the second night as the forum group *cough* Cindy, Jeremy *cough* was just demanding my attention. He said it was the water from backstage the same one the girls were drinking. I got kick out of the fact that he thought I would even want a water…which I did have to drink cause I couldn’t find my own lol. I sadly went back to the seat for the next part of the show, I wanted to stay and enjoy with my fab group. I went to my seat and tried the one in front of me for kicks but it proved to have the same problem as front row, I lost a bit of the stage by getting close so I moved back one.

Act 2

Got the name of the first instrumental song of the second act, it’s Sleigh Ride. It was great to see how much fun the conductor had during the performance he was just as into it as the girls. By In the Bleak Midwinter I was starting to feel the sadness that this was last show, and the last act. Hand it to Mairead to play this piece so lovely I would think on my favorite, There is no Night, and really feel the emotion for the song. It was harder to sing to First Noel. It wasn’t cause I still didn’t know the second verse but because it was beginning to dawn on me that it was the last time I would see Lisa on stage for quite some time. I felt better after they got a bit silly before Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas. Chloe prompted the audience, “What is your favorite thing on Christmas Day?” Rachel yells out, “You!” “I’ll have the check in the mail for ya.” After a moment of thought I yelled, “Opening presents.” From the left side of the audience I couldn’t see Lisa for HYAMLC. Chloe was again in the way, this had happened at other shows too. But I love Chloe so it was all good. We agreed prior to the show before Lisa introduced Green the Whole Year Round we would say, “Green grow the rushes O.” A joke about the Atlanta taping. But she knew it was coming because of the previous night and even called Scott out on it. This is my favorite Lisa solo for all the shows. I love Green the Whole Year Round and it has Lisa at her best. Belting the song that was written and made just for her. Granuaile’s Dance was once again energy pumping good fun. I got some great looks from Mairead but I think she gave the guy in front of me attention too. That or she was looking at me and I thought it was him lol The man sitting next to me wanted no  part in Auld Lang Syne so I was like fine I’ll just sway to the music without you. This is surely my favorite Lisa Lambe solo of the show. Such a gorgeous one of the few I think needs to be recorded. Don was one of the few I have talked about rarely, it’s a nice piece and I think I would come to know better with the Lisa L. Chloe version. Meav just sang it too high for my ears. I was happy for Scott for Ave Maria. It wasn’t the same as the night before but it got even the more subdued audience to pay her the respect she completely deserved. And knowing Scott was a Chloe fan how much it would mean if Lisa did a number like this what it would mean to me to be that close. I will say I blame Scott for what happened next, but I’m sure he wasn’t the only one to remind me that this would be the very last time for a long time that we would see Lisa. YRMU is my favorite ensemble song of CW, Lisa’s part in particular the reason. The meaning of the song and how it describes exactly what we fans feel about them. Well I was doing okay through the song, and Lisa did her best version of it that night, her notes just kept climbing the way I love it so. I had considered leaning on the seat since no one was in front of it and finally did so. I crossed my arms and rested my chin and enjoyed my last precious minutes with Lisa. I quietly sang along as best I could until I succumbed to the lyrics, what the song meant to me, what Lisa meant to me and how much I was going to miss her. I lost it. These were not silent tears in the corner of my eye. This was sobbing as I never had at a show. I let the tears fall down my cheek and just looked on at the girls. And all Lisa had to do was look at me and I knew. She saw me, I wasn’t going to hide the tears because they were for her. Chloe also looked my way and I think she knew too. As the song finished I tried to compose myself as best I could. I wiped away the tears and clapped as they left the stage. It was only a few seconds before they were right back on. “This is the lovely O Come All Ye Faithful.” It was hard to keep it together for this song but I did, the remnants of the last few minutes had remained. It was just the most beautiful thing, building from small to grand and becoming more and more breathtaking. For Let it Snow, I was told to let my hair down and I literally did. Hair tie around my wrist I bobbed and grooved with the girls to the music. This was so much fun and the best way to end it. Not teary eyed, but joyous and fun. I walked up and clapped close to the stage hoping for Spanish Lady but it would not come. Although we were standing and clapping it was to end anyway. As the girls left I gave them the best farewell I could. I took my last longing look and then they were gone. I touched the stage decoration the first night but now I could touch the actual stage. With a melancholy look I took a moment to myself to understand what this weekend meant in this place. It was special and would not happen again. I grabbed my stuff and walked over to my friends. I told Scott I was bummed to not see Spanish Lady, he said it was a treat we got it the first night and that it might not be in the other shows. I knew I would join in for the viewing I need the girls to cheer me back up. I told Scott during YRMU I cried, “I cry for it too.” I tried to explain that it wasn’t the song it was something else. “Don’t be sad you’ll them again soon.” I lost my composure again and Jeremy gave me a big hug. “It’s okay.” “I’m just going to miss Lisa. And I didn’t realize how much.” “This is a job for mom. Mom! C’mere.” And Cindy gave me the sweetest hug. After I was better I ended up talking to the camera guy again. He handed me another set list with specific cues. I just about lost it again. It was like getting another autograph. I teared up again.“I’m not sad just overwhelmed.” “That’s what they do it’s a time of laughter and tears.” Andy was back on stage packing up and Jeremy yelled to him “Hey Andy, I’m Chloe’s little drummer boy.” And Andy threw him a bodhran stick. I felt like it was no comparison to a set list. And he proceeded to play with it the rest of the night.

[lisalover7 (LL7)]

As I walked out I knew for certain I was going and would just catch a ride to Donna’s house. Outside the theater we discussed the best place to run into the girls. They wanted to find the stage door like in Atlanta but had no idea where it was. We knew they would be the first ones of of the casino and knew it was best to be on our way. I got a ride from Mikey Scott and Rachel and Jeremy said he wanted to be in whatever car I was in. It was great to do something with the rest of the fans, it was really like an after party celebration, in reality a viewing party, just like the Emmys. As soon as we walked in the door I heard the first song already in progress I was told to continue in to the living room. Then I bolted past a dog (which later turned out to be a stuffed animal) and dumped my things in the middle of the floor and watched the show. Then Rachel came in and paused then rewound it. “No, I want to watch it!” “Were waiting for everybody else.” “We could back it up…” Nope I got to wait for everyone else to get there before we started the show. I had wanted to sit next to Cindy and Jeremy but ended  up in a recliner all to myself. I guess it was a good thing because I flipped over some of the songs in the show. I think I was worst at Give Me Your Hand, although experiencing that song live for the first time beat it. However I love love love it. The other and I already know this is my favorite of the entire show period: Téir Abhaile Riú and I have no idea how to say it. It’s At  the Ceili meets Nil Sen La meets awesome! It was the best experience watching with most of the people who were actually there. It was great to cheer and exclaim whenever we saw someone in the audience. Cindy even made it in multiple times. It was wonderful to sit next to Jeremy and bond. I now think of him as my adopted little brother and sometimes he may fill that row a little too well. After the show ended Rachel and I fought over playing Spaceman and Téir Abhaile Riú again but we had to go. But not before I got a big group picture and they recorded their version of the Green Grow the Rushes O song. I gave Cindy the biggest hug before she left, I honestly don’t think I’ve been more hugged in a single day in my life. “Never forget how much I love you sweetie.” I knew after meeting Cindy that when I finally meet Lisa (here’s hoping!) it would be all the more special. I was taken back to Pechanga where I had left my car and said goodbye  to Scott Rachel Mikey and Jeremy. It was a quick good bye for Rachel because we see each other fairly often. Jeremy wouldn’t stop hugging me as Scott waited patiently. “Jeremy I got to say goodbye to Scott and Mikey too” I told Scott the next time we meet I might be on the East Coast. I gave Mikey his hug he was such a good sport for being my ride around the city. And I gave my lil bro one last hug. He walked me the 5 ft to my car. I hoped it wouldn’t be too long before we were in each other’s company again. “Give your mom a hug for me.” And I was in my car on my way home. I only got home an hour earlier than the previous two nights. It was amazing; I couldn’t Believe all that I had experienced.

Last thoughts: I hope to see the show in LA for my birthday it was so great. I love Lisa and after this experience know that I have a second family outside my own. Although Emily wasn’t there she certainly was in spirit as well as Abby who I was compared to most of the weekend.

Thanks to everyone involved in this magical festival and to the next show lucky number 7!

By the numbers

3 shows
2 restaurants
67 songs
278.5 miles driven
153,000 miles on the car
4 girls
1 amazing weekend

[Scuilly]

GREAT REVIEW! I really enjoyed reading that...especially the RED parts...too funny!

[lisalover7 (LL7)]

Thanks, thought I would make it easy for people to find

[Scott]

hehe I love the way you ended the review... I am a statistics junky too. 

[lisalover7 (LL7)]

I think was more homage too a Mastercard priceless commercial haha

[Scott]

And it was so nice of you to refer to me in your review so much... it made me feel like a star!

[lisalover7 (LL7)]

You were a huge part of the experience

[IloveyouSarahBurke!! <3]

Amazing review!!!!!!!!  The girls are so adorable!!  Loved the red parts!
And I totally understand what you mean about You Raise Me Up... I bawl every time too, because, like you, that song as special meaning to me...
You're soooo lucky you were able to go to 3 concerts and have all that time with dear, sweet Lisa Kelly.  I'm only going to one next Friday, but I will enjoy every moment with my favorite girl...
Your review made me even more excited to see the show!!

[JuanV]

Really amazing review! It was like reliving those concerts again. I miss Lisa K already.

[lisalover7 (LL7)]

Me too.

[MikeyK]

Yes, I think the title, "west coast Abby" fits you perfectly HAHAHA

What a great review, Caitlin! Very finely detailed, I felt like I was living it all over again! I'm glad you were able to join us at all the events that you did, it was great seeing another show with you. I was happy to drive you all over Temecula, at least I didn't have to drive you home this time.