| A week or so ago, someone asked about audience behavior at the Springsteen show. I attended last night and can say that, for the most part, the audience is quiet and very respectful. Twice, someone tried to initiate “concert behavior” (clapping along with a song) and Bruce very quickly let it be known he’d be having none of that. The first time it happened, he stopped playing piano and gave a funny, faux “stern” look and the clapper stopped. Great moment. The second time, he stopped and said something like “I can handle this on my own, thanks.” Another great moment. He’s really doing everything he can to make this NOT a concert but a fully realized show. And yet, he still knows why people are there and could sense the audience thrill when he started certain songs and, at one point, joked: “It’s okay, you can get excited.” Obviously, as a longtime, devoted Bruce fan (who paid half her mortgage for tickets) I thought it was sublime. To hear his songs in new and fresh ways was a phenomenal experience. And to have it performed in such an intimate way (and to be close enough to see every line on his face) was a particular thrill. The closest I’ve been before has been in the pit of his concerts (and close enough 5 years ago that he took the hand of my then 10 year old and gave her a guitar pick) so this was profoundly special for me. |
