DAY 116

New York, NY USA August 17, 2008/ writing for August 16th

It turned out to be our most emotional evening at the last show in USA - New York !!
Well actually, Long Island, New Jersey and the entire surrounding area, which, those that live here know better it is not truly NYC. Its like performing in Thane and saying Mumbai. Close enough to be called Mumbai in general terms, but actually Thane ! Thats the closest example or near to an example that I can give.
It rained, there were thunderstorms, lightening and pouring water, but they came in their hundreds ! Thank you so much. Another packed stadium. I believe the promoters had to put in extra row of seats to accommodate people on the floor of the house at rather exorbitant rates and some of those that we met after the show told us that the atmosphere outside the stadium was much like the first day of a blockbuster release film in India. Black marketing in tickets !!
The audience wet from the drive in and into their seats were just a little hesitant for the first 10-15 minutes into the show, but as the event flowed they warmed up into the most exited audience that we witnessed in the entire USA. Though some of the group did feel Chicago was still the best !!
I do not know what it was, but everyone was simply on a different level. Improvising, doing that extra bit, reaching out. What a difference the audience reactions make to a show.
Jaya and I had our additional moment. I could not help but get more personal emotionally on my dialogue portion. Just such an involved evening. And then the after show meet. The cast and crew getting together late night at about 2 am. And every one doing a take off on each other and the fun and the laughter and the back slapping and leg pulling. Marvelous atmosphere. And an apt ending to the US leg.
What was most unusual was finding all the promoters of each and every center in USA at the venue in NYC. And when the show ended we called them all up for the curtain call. All of them together. Such a great gesture from them in appreciation of the concert.
I have been in situations before where the promoters have met you when you came in and then disappeared after the event was over. Forgotten us. Left us to fend for ourselves. On occasion we have had to book our own cab and drive to the airport to take the flight out. Happened in Guyana. Horrid experience with the promoter.
But promoters all over are not the same. I would conjecture that in this tour they have been exceptional. Each and every location. Personal, courteous, well organized and have delivered. Yes there are always the few hicups, but in a show of this magnitude and expanse there are bound to be some.
I read in the comments a great amount of distaste for them. I find this perhaps harsh, even though I have personally been a victim of some circumstances. Lets be fair. They do take on a lot.
It is they that buy the show in advance. Pay out huge amounts of money and take the risk of their investment coming back, purely on conjecture. They have to sell the show, sell the artists, organize the venue, manage all the production, the security, the welfare, the administration, the artists, the accommodation and transport, facilities… without knowing what the show will entail.. oh ! its a nightmare ! And even if there is the slightest error or slip they are the first to be blamed. I think they need to be looked at more compassionately. I have been very satisfied with most of them, though we hardly ever get to know them well enough. Yes there are issues with payments and financials at times. But tell me one business in the world where finances have not been an issue. No where.
So all said and done we go back from the US delighted with the response of the audience. Terribly excited with our interaction and support from the fans. Comfortable and easy with the cast and crew that has been with us and assured, by the blessings of the Almighty. May HE/SHE forever remain with us.

I have been moved and deeply touched by the responses that I have received from the readers, on the blog about my Mother. You have shared with me my emotion and my love. Your tears mingle with mine in my hour of grief. I could never have asked for more. You have given me strength to bear my loss and the courage to continue my life. I see you walking along with me - behind me, around me. Your company gives me support, your words and feelings the forbearance. I am not alone. And I cherish that.

I rest and catch up on unfinished agenda’s and of course delight at the opportunity to see some of the greats marvels unfolding in front of us at the Beijing Olympics, every day !
My love and more to all -

Amitabh Bachchan