Akim Posted July 5, 2007 Share Posted July 5, 2007 Vodafone TBA: Mika in Manchester. The Great Northern Square- June 07 I think that every thing worked in my favour so that I got to see Mika play this intimate gig. I’d like to think that I am spontaneous and how I behaved with regards to this event proves that I am!! I booked the train tickets in advance, not knowing exactly where Mika would end up playing and before I had known about being picked for tickets… I had planned to spend a day in Manchester City Centre with fellow MFC Members who I knew would be there in case I hadn’t won…So I thank my lucky stars I did win! If we had known beforehand that you could have turned up on the day anyway (the location was pretty easy to get to AND it was outdoors) I am sure a hell of a lot of people would have taken that chance! As it was when we got to The Great Northern Square- there wasn’t much of a queue…I later learnt that Manchester City Council did not allow the event to be advertised, as they didn’t want the city centre to be overrun by gig-goers!! So the only option TBA was left with was to call to people passing by- they eventually managed to fill the crowd… The Arrival Felicia and I checked into our hotel at around 2:00pm. We met Bexxy and Sara on our way out for a quick drink in the lobby, and agreed to meet later to get to the gig. We were waiting all that time up until 3:15pm for the text to let us know the exact location…Well, getting to the square was a mission! The lady at the hotel reception had told us that it was a 10 minute walk when in fact it took us at least 25 mins…poor Sara and Bexxy were not getting a good reception- People in London are much more receptive! If we had known it would take this long to walk it, we would have called a cab…suffice it to say, our journey to the gig was filled with niceties being shouted to and fro…he! he! Once we’d got onto the street that led to the square (having asked numerous people- some being helpful, others not) the music was blaring out…we had found Mika!! Wayhey! By this time I had lost all sense of myself and my surroundings and started running towards the sound, shrieking and giggling- not a sane sight, but I didn’t care! When we got to the square itself- there weren’t as many people as we thought there’d be. I think that had to do with my expectations from previous Mika gigs. We could see Mika doing his sound check- I felt rooted to the spot and unable to move as Felicia tried to pull me away to the queue…I just wanted to look at him in action. We queued up and saw Arianna, (she had interviewed Sara and I for a screen test for TBA but we didn’t win it) who recognised us and said that she was glad we could make it. For some reason, at one point, the queues were split into 2- one for the girls and for the boys, so couples ended getting split apart and shouting out whom they were with when the tickets were getting scanned- I have no idea why they did that??? We took some pictures while we were waiting: http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa218/Akim_K/BexxiKaysaraandme.jpg Bexxy, Sara, Kay, Felicia Everyone loved Sara and Bexxy’s dress up- I loved the red and black feather scarf- so burlesque!! BTW Bexxy, my daughter knows you as the Ladybird- her words not mine! The crew from TBA came around to scan the tickets from the mobiles, mine took a while (they have this problem with Samsung) and I was holding my breath until it finally beeped. They then handed lanyards with pass cards for “The Golden Circle”. A photographer for Vodafone, I met quite randomly on my way home the next day told me that that actually means something! When we were told to move in, we had our bags searched, silly annoying security people shouting out “come on girls, hurry up”, “keep your bags open”, “lets make this quick”- I know they have a job to do, but I can’t tell you how off putting it is to hear it being repeated at least 10 times in the space of a minute!! We had to walk pass someone filming, with directions to wave and sound “like we’re having fun”!! They obviously haven’t met real Mika fans!! We were in! We had made it to “The Golden Circle”!! Listening to some music, I can’t remember, but I moved to it anyway just to keep warm. Looking at the pictures you can be easily fooled by the scenery as you can’t tell that it was very windy. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Akim Posted July 5, 2007 Author Share Posted July 5, 2007 The performance Things were beginning to happen: Miquita (is that how you spell it?) came to the back of the crowd- where we were told by loudspeaker, that we needed to shout and cheer when she turned around after introducing the event on film- as with all filming (not that I’m an expert) we did at least 5 takes! It was so funny because no sooner had we returned to carrying on our conversation, we had to quickly cheer and shout/scream every time Mniquita turned around!! I expected Mquita, being a personality/presenter to have some sort of dazzling personality and be able to connect with the crowd, but she had none and generally looked bored. Anyway that was my claim to fame or the closest experience to filming I will ever get to (not that I want to…) We then had someone (the director?) coming on stage and introduce the event. He was professional. The crowd at the back were invited to come into the Golden Circle- I think some people were reluctant- because he ended up coaxing them…it made me mentally think of the reaction that the MFC would have given if there had been more of us!!! He then proceeded to tell us how the sound system was very loud and in order to make the filming “successful” we would have to shout as best as we can over it…he then made (!) us practice to the level he thought was sufficient enough… at least 4-5 times. Now I only remember hearing that flash photography was not allowed- not, not taking pictures. He had a lot of people at the front (babspanky, Daisylou and co???) that kept firing questions at him, which he replied to: “Can we get to meet Mika?” “Can you pass on presents to him?” but at one point he did get fed up and say “what am I, his PA or something?”- Everyone laughed at that. Finally Mika was introduced by Miquita, who by the way looked uncomfortable with a Captains hat on. She told us that Mika made her put the hat on and “I don’t look stupid in this…yeah right!” Her vibe just didn’t come across as being supportive as I think it should at events like this… Vodafone are using Mika to promote their campaign of supporting music acts, I think it’s only fair that he gets the right support. So if you happen to have a presenter who doesn’t really care for the act I don’t think its right to have the presenter to introduce the act. And along came Mika… with a crisply cut Royal blue and white striped jacket on top of a colourful T-shirt and sky blue jeans: Mika worked through his set. As usual he couldn’t keep still and moved around so much- I’m surprised that Felicia (who took all the pictures- Thank you!!) managed to get any, let alone any of a good standard! He blew me away with his performance on Love Today- I cannot and have not found fault in his live performances with regards to his singing. The way he totally lost it, in a frenzied act of abandonment with the drumming on the steel drum- was indulgent to witness. Mika was hitting that drum with rhythm that infused the crowd- if anyone can work a crowd its Mika. At one point Mika looked “lost” as if trying to figure out where to channel this energy- he ended up hitting the light bulbs above his head while standing on Cherisse’s drum set (she later told us she was praying that he wouldn’t fall off…) I could hear the glass as it hit the floor. I couldn’t imagine Mika playing in Ibiza (But I have no experience of Ibiza, nor do I want to!) but seeing his performance at this gig, convinced me otherwise. He spoke to the crowd a lot, which was nice, but I am either hard of hearing naturally or the crowd was noisy as I didn’t hear half the things he was saying… I did however hear him comment on the dress-ups. Personally I would have liked to have heard a more sincere heart-felt thank you for those who did dress up. There were some elaborate costumes, which he did comment on but the look on his face did not match what he was saying. Now I only say this as I would like to see Mika as he really is and coming across as, as opposed to having a rose tinted image of him…for me he had a look on his face as if to say “you came looking like that? Riding on (the tube?) public transport as well” as if to suggest bewilderment at the levels that some people would go to… The Big Girl (You are beautiful) routine was perfected to an artform…which earned Mika a kiss on the cheek leaving a big fat red lipstick mark which, he unsuccessfully tried to remove…see Ruth’s profile picture. I loved his cover of Sweet Dreams- again, not something I thought that he could do: the rock scene, but it’s proved me otherwise. I am eagerly awaiting his next album and hope it does have a few rocky numbers in it. The time came for Happy Ending where Mika introduced, Lorna as his friend from college. I think he sings this song beautifully and with each performance can see the emotions being expressed with growing confidence. However, although I am just as guilty as this, I feel that Lorna should be heard. Now if this was more to do with the sound engineering department, I don’t know…but there were times where she kept looking at Mika with her hands up in the air, as if to suggest she couldn’t hear properly or wasn’t being heard over our singing (?). I did feel sorry that she wasn’t being heard, if it’s the same person who sings on the album, she really has a beautiful voice, which deserves to be heard. I have a voice that doesn’t carry very well, esp. when I sing (thankfully!) but I wanted to sing along with all the songs, I was so out of breath and my lower abdomen hurt with the exertion that was required from my lungs- I ended up truly appreciating his efforts!! Mika finished with Grace Kelly……and disappeared!! Well walked off the stage and out. It was to be honest, quite sudden. Felicia kept asking “is that it?” not because it was a cop out but there was no anti-climax and we wanted more!!! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Akim Posted July 5, 2007 Author Share Posted July 5, 2007 After Mika left… So there we were left on a high…we followed the crowd not knowing where we were going. We met lollipop girl, who stayed in character and spoke to us in a little girl voice (I was impressed) - who promised that she would pass on our gifts to Mika, who by the way, loves getting presents… We then went into the club that was on the square. At the time I didn’t know that that was where Mika and his band were…we met some more of the MFC members and sat around having drinks and chatting. I must add that this was just as integral to the experience as seeing Mika and the band. We saw Cherisse come out and say hello, so we waited to ask for her autograph and photo. I am terribly shy, until I get to know you- so I am ever so thankful that Felicia “made” me have a photo taken with each of the band members- Thank you!! We then got to meet Martin. He was so cheerful and had an incredible smile- (he looked tipsy, but I don’t want to start rumours!!). Martin spoke about not being able to spend time with his family "hours and not days"- I felt bad hearing this, but it’s all part of the job not that it’s a comforting thought esp., knowing that he also had an 8 week old baby at home… Mickey wasn’t as chatty (neither was I!) but we got some nice pictures with him as well. Luke was happy to sign away and have pictures taken of him- he is so tall- but then I am short! It all looked as if it were winding down… everyone looked relaxed and totally chilled out, like we were at a party where we all knew each other- it really was surreal. The club was a great location as well; I really liked the décor and felt right at home… Ruth, Felicia and I got into a conversation about how we hope Mika doesn’t end up becoming “packaged” and “commercialised”- we all agreed that Mika is too opinionated and strong willed to let that happen! Brian and Sharri had to leave early which was such a shame as I know they would have enjoyed conversing with Cherisse along with Felicia and I. We then all walked around to the seating area (or we were told to walk around- this happened several times!!) and got into a deep seated (or shall I say heated?!) discussion about the meaning behind Love Today…I owe that to Felicia and myself- we earned some pretty funny glances from the rest of the group...!! There came a point where the whole group suddenly got up to leave and Ruth came back to tell us that “we’re going to try and gate-crash the party!) I was horrified (!?!) you see I am a law abiding person… (Ha! ha!) But, I let Felicia pull me along anyway… I later learned that it was due to the skilful communications skills possessed by Yuppymunch that got us entry to the after-party- so Thank you!! The passage to the bar upstairs proceeded without the predicted resistance that I imagined and the band genuinely looked happy to see us so that was a bonus. Right time to mingle! Martin and esp. Luke were very entertaining. Luke was being funny with his stories of strange people he meets on the tube- who by the way, randomly takes pictures of people he finds amusing on his mobile phone, inconspicuously! The evidence is in his Pics. Section on his myspace- check it out if you haven’t already! There was a tale he re-counted where the band were getting ready for a gig, he had either grown a moustache or put a fake one on- Mika was saying “right everyone lets do this- or lets go!” He then turned around and saw Luke's face and immediately pointed both hands to the offending article on his face and said "F*** off!!" So Luke then had to either take it off or shave it off...I can't remember! But I thought it was funny. Luke, I think is the quiet one and now I can see there is another side to him- as I'm sure there is to everyone! Felicia and I got talking to Cherisse, who is so lovely beyond words...she really appreciated that she could have a normal conversation with fans. We both got the feeling that they didn't like being pursued with such frenzy (although expected) - our conversation mentioned "fanatics" and "being mobbed". I felt so bad hearing this- You really do lose sight of what the other side of fame brings and it isn't always nice. I wouldn't be surprised if Mika now makes it a point to get away as soon as possible... Our wonderful evening had to come to an end, when the band left. Martin on his way out kept on commenting on my outfit- I ended up being congratulated, which I found really amusing to say the least- and I was happy!! Those of us, who were left, were again directed downstairs where we sat down to recall on the evenings events with drinks and smoke on very relaxing seats. We obviously lost track of time because, again (!) we were being told to leave as it was closing time! This was when we realised that we had not eaten and needed to find somewhere to replenish. So, Bexxy, Sara, Felicia and I walked back to the hotel (needing direction from passer bys) got changed- and went in search of food. It was only after 12:00am, but there was hardly anywhere within reach- we walked for ages asking for directions, being asked for directions (!), getting chatted up and put down (!) before we found a Subway. After that we had no choice but to go back to the hotel… It was an experience- which has taken me a good few days and pages to recount and write down! But I want to be able to re-live the experience whenever I happen to re-read this- so no apologies for boring you- Actually I’m not that heartless, sorry if I have!!! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
babspanky Posted July 5, 2007 Share Posted July 5, 2007 Keep going Akim, loving it! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Akim Posted July 5, 2007 Author Share Posted July 5, 2007 Thank you you don't think I'm going to get people ripping their hair out or anything, totally understandable or course, in sheer frustation??? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BexxY Posted July 5, 2007 Share Posted July 5, 2007 Akim that was a great report i really enjoyed reading it, it brings back soo many memories thankyou for posting it better late then never dont they say and that was worth the wait aww at your daughter knowing me now as the lady bird :-)) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Gatagordinha Posted July 5, 2007 Share Posted July 5, 2007 That was great Akim, thanks; I felt like I was reading your diary:blink: But that means it was well written with personal touches, so well done! I feel like I was there - well almost:thumbdown: but next best thing:thumb_yello: Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
yuppymunch Posted July 5, 2007 Share Posted July 5, 2007 YAY thanks akim! i LOVE LOVE reading the reports!! memories Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Akim Posted July 5, 2007 Author Share Posted July 5, 2007 Awww..thank you guys, I am chuffed with your responses:wink2: (...now what I agreed about the payments.... well....) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
nikjass Posted July 5, 2007 Share Posted July 5, 2007 Enjoyed reading, but did i miss anything.. you said mika and his band was at the club, but did you get to meet him at the end?? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Akim Posted July 5, 2007 Author Share Posted July 5, 2007 Enjoyed reading, but did i miss anything.. you said mika and his band was at the club, but did you get to meet him at the end?? No Mika did leave, before Felicia and I learnt that he indeed was at the club...oh well! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
nikjass Posted July 5, 2007 Share Posted July 5, 2007 No Mika did leave, before Felicia and I learnt that he indeed was at the club...oh well! That's ashame, but good to know you had a blast nevertheless... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MIKA MANIA Posted July 5, 2007 Share Posted July 5, 2007 Thank you for posting a great report! I can't go to MIKA's concert easily (I live in Japan ), so I could feel like I was there! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jemmalee Posted July 5, 2007 Share Posted July 5, 2007 AMAZING! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
shaun scarface kearns Posted July 5, 2007 Share Posted July 5, 2007 Well K that was some write up.....but as you know i heard it from the horses mouth on the train...im not saying your a horse,but if you were you would be a top filly !!x:punk: Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Shari Posted July 5, 2007 Share Posted July 5, 2007 Hiya K, G-R-E-A-T review of your Mika day in Manchester. It was so nice to read what happened in the early part of the day. Thoroughly enjoyed it, thanks. Love, love me, Shari xxx Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sara Posted July 5, 2007 Share Posted July 5, 2007 Wow!!! What a fab write up babe!!!! You really did tell it good!! We had the best time didn't we! Hey Shari!! Nice to see you followed my advice about signing up on here! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ruth Posted July 5, 2007 Share Posted July 5, 2007 Hi Shari, Hi Sara. Love the report Akim. I've commented on your MySpace. I'm glad you noticed the broken glass, I was beginning to think I'd imagined it! Did you 'pull' on the way home Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Akim Posted July 6, 2007 Author Share Posted July 6, 2007 Hi Shari, Hi Sara. Love the report Akim. I've commented on your MySpace. I'm glad you noticed the broken glass, I was beginning to think I'd imagined it! Did you 'pull' on the way home Nah! No such Luck!! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BexxY Posted July 6, 2007 Share Posted July 6, 2007 Nah! No such Luck!! akim you have to add me to your myspace!!!! i tried but it asked me for your name or email address Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Akim Posted July 6, 2007 Author Share Posted July 6, 2007 Done!! We are now on our way to being Myspace Friends:biggrin2: Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
yuppymunch Posted July 6, 2007 Share Posted July 6, 2007 add me akim! as i did briefly meet ya on that very eventful night! ps everyone.. i am really excited about seeing the gig on T4 tomo!! its like being there again! (well, minus mika being two centimeters away from me)!! CANT WAIT!! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jemmalee Posted July 6, 2007 Share Posted July 6, 2007 add me akim! as i did briefly meet ya on that very eventful night! ps everyone.. i am really excited about seeing the gig on T4 tomo!! its like being there again! (well, minus mika being two centimeters away from me)!! CANT WAIT!! Yeah and no spit this time lol:naughty: Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
yuppymunch Posted July 6, 2007 Share Posted July 6, 2007 OH YEAH! man, that was freaking funny!! maybe we'll see it on camera?! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jemmalee Posted July 6, 2007 Share Posted July 6, 2007 OH YEAH! man, that was freaking funny!! maybe we'll see it on camera?! ROTFLMAO I hope so! I will miss tomorrow morning's one though, will have to wait till the 2nd one Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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