So this was my third year in a row seeing BFTV at Niagara's fallsview casino and resort. One thing you can always expect is for the show to be different every night (saw it twice this year and last) let alone every year....
I will start with the biggest disappointment and move on to the highlights....
Terri Hatcher. Oh dear. You could tell she was having fun, but it just wasn't enough. It was even slightly disturbing the way she got down on her hands and knees during a song. I actually had to avert my eyes....both nights....cause it was simply going too far. I quite like Terri as an actress....and I'm sure she brought in some people who wouldn't have otherwise wanted to come, but I could do without if they come back again next year.
Hugh Laurie. No show. Biggest disappointment by far! I started attending this concert in support of Hugh and was beyond disappointed that he did not attend. However, I think the audience (meaning the others who were openly upset he wasn't there) need to remember that he has recently released his own album, and is trying to wrap up the final season of House. It is totally justified, but a huge let down nonetheless.
Now....to move away from the downers since there were not many....
There is no other world then brilliant to discribe this show. When people go to a concert where they are sitting in seats for two hours, there needs to be a significant amount of entertainment to keep them from getting restless....and thats exactly what was provided. There is more audience interaction and give aways in this show then any other I have ever been too....and I've seen a lot of concerts. Every band member had their shining moments. It was nice to see Jesse play more then the violin....even though he is simply amazing on it. Greg Grunberg is always good for a solid laugh....and Bob Guiney just makes you want to smile cause he looks like he genuinely believes he's the luckiest guy in the world. James Denton was great with the audience, and it was nice to see Chris Kelly stand out a little more.
Scott Grimes stole the show. Over and over and over. His talent and stage presence makes it impossible to focus on anything else. When I think back to my favourite songs of the show (and there are soooo many) every one I think of was Scott Grimes. Walking in Memphis, Man in the Mirror, Don't Stop me Now, I'll Never do You no Harm.....Scott Grimes, and Scott Grimes! Sad to see Hugh's piano being taken over....but if it had to be anyone....it HAS to be Scott Grimes. Wow.
The only thing left is the hope that they will release another album with all their new covers.
It doesn't matter if you go because you're a major fan of one of these band member's amazing shows, you're just looking for a night out on the town, or your looking for a great cause to support.....you will not be disappointed by this fine group of people!!!