Yes what can we say? Choctaw nation was in for a big surprise and so were we. Both nights standing room and packed to capacity! What was pretty intense and very exciting at the same time I can honestly say we couldn't have done any better. The response was so humbling and walking on to that stage with 800 people staring at you was just as scary as going on a first date :). The feedback was so positive and we were told by many that they do want us back. I have to thank Russell Markham because if it wasn't for him seeing our show that would have never happened. If it wasn't for Elaine Liner writing about Elvis August, Russell would have never came. Funny how things happen. When we finished our weekend to standing ovations and rooms that were beautiful I came out of it with an elevation of confidence, that the best is yet to come. What a wonderful point of validation.
Now let me also get to the bond I share with each of the dancers. Tish and Rheagan. These girls who worked so hard and to go out there for a main stage show and bring it with their "I goT this" mentality should show that you don't have to be a template looking dancer in this business but the heart of a lion to want it!I have always preached that talent is only valid when you work hard at polishing your gift and never excepting mediocre performances! They are not only top of the line performers and dancers, but in this business where an audience sees you as an entertainer and not as a family member, the accolades and ovations says it all. As one audience member said as the girls came on "ELVIS WHO". Of course it was a man. I truly respect them and respect their input as well because they have come a long way with me. Think about it they have been dancing with me since June. That is a long time. I guess we are doing something right!
The band. You know these guys. What can I say when it comes to big time lights just come on! I was watching Dave playing and I have never seen him so animated when I saw him play behind me. The guy was in a zone!! Pat was always the guy to make sure sound quality is good and hearing him sing with me just added so much. What a guy to have in your corner! And what can I say about Trailerpark that I haven't said yet. The constant performer and professional. Always there and I even think now he is thinking like Jack. He can anticipate anything I do. That's either genius or scary. Nick as always brought his A game with the sax and he always adds a different tone to my shows. So gifted!
Saying all that what I got out of this trip are the times I spend with these Band of Brothers. It always is so reassuring that when I go out of town to perform that I have my sense of home about me and never feel awkward or uncomfortable. Now granted there is always going to be problems beyond our control, but we have gotten so tight as a unit, there is nothing we can't overcome.
Which comes to our Christmas show. Does everyone know we have one? It's funny how we can pack them at the casinos but stretch to get 20 people here. :). I'm telling you you are going to love the show. It's different,it's classy, it's clean,it's Christmas. We do these Christmas shows as kind of a escape from the busy season and we would like to end our season on a great uplifting note. Please bring groups or families for some top entertainment. If we are good enough to beat out performers around the country and share a stage previously used by the likes of Dr.john, Randy Travis ,Foghat,Aaron Neville,surely we are good enough to be back at the best entertainment venue this side of Texas. THEATRE 166. I look forward to seeing you again and let's get those phones blowing up
