Luke eagerly posed for pics with the massive collection of Star Wars memorabilia on hand, with the exception of the Stormtroopers which apparently were a little too true-to-life for his taste.  While they cheered to the iconic scores of the Imperial March complete with lasers and exploding light shows, I ran a hot bath, poured myself a lovely glass of red wine and tucked in with a mystery.  Since Luke first discovered Star Wars, he and Gordy have carved out their own “boy zone” around the classic saga.  There are no girls allowed when they break out Lego sets on Luke’s bedroom floor, or battle with foam light-sabers.  I’m fine this utterly sexist mentality.  I love that they have their own traditions, and let’s face it a night by myself in the bath is a very good thing.

My favorite moment of the night was when Glen called an audience member down from the cheap seats to sing.  The band went for a walk along the waterfront before the show, and met Joseph, an aspiring singer.  Joseph made his way down to the stage, visibly shaking, and sang a rendition of “Brandy You’re a Fine Girl”.  I’m guessing it was a song he performed for his high-school talent show.  He wasn’t spectacular.  His voice cracked, he looked to band for guidance, and grinned sheepishly to the audience.  But he brought the house down.

Getting on that stage in front of thousands, with no preparation, rehearsal, or idea what to sing is the ultimate exposure–a risk others might be unwilling to take.  As his voice cracked and wobbled at the beginning of the song, the audience cheered louder, willing him on.  He found his rhythm, and the band swelled behind him.  When he finished we all jumped to our feet, not so much applauding an amazing performance, but applauding his willingness to fail.  

For me it’s a reminder to all artists how invaluable it is to put yourself out there, whether it’s your artwork hanging on a coffee shop wall, or reading your poetry aloud to a class of hungover students.  Thanks Joseph for taking the stage.  Thanks Glen for sharing it.