I’m really sorry that I haven’t written in a few days. Let me give you that fast update on Lake Charles and Baton Rouge. In Lake Charles, we were at the Civic Center. This is a large venue that was used during Hurricane Katrina as a refuge. Once everyone was settled, they had to move again because the hurricane was coming that way. They had some extensive damage and much of the area is still trying to recover. That being said, we had a great audience of almost 1600 people who were ready to have a good time.
The crew here, under the direction of Denver Kaufman, was outstanding. Mary Richardson and LeDonna and the entire team of the Banner Series were wonderful hosts. They catered in Cajun food for dinner!
We videotaped the show and were very pleased with the way things looked and the responses from the audience – standing ovation!
We were off the next morning for performances in a new venue in Baton Rouge called the Manship Theatre. We had 2 shows here – a 3pm and a 7:30pm. Both shows were sold out before we arrived and the crew was very accommodating in helping us get the show up fast. This was a very enjoyable day for us and they made us feel very relaxed.
Both performances went very well and some of the local magicians came to each. We always appreciate the support of the local guys and were glad to meet so many of them.
After Baton Rouge came the long – very long – haul to Beaver Creek, CO. Three days of almost constant driving got us here last night (Tuesday). Unfortunately, the trip on I-70 West, past Denver, was a bad experience. The mountains are big, the grades are steep, the brakes on the truck get hot. We found ourselves creeping down the mountain on the shoulder (after being on the side of the road for an hour letting the brakes cool down) going about 8mph. At least we were in control on those steep grades.
This morning, we’re all tired and a little stressed. And now, it’s snowing with 6-8 inches expected before we leave town in the morning for Southern California. It could be interesting the next two days.
I’ll write about the Vilar Center later today or in the morning. I’ve got 2 newspaper interviews in a few minutes and a lot of work to do yet.