Experiencing Live Entertainment

For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted to experience and enjoy all kinds of different concerts, shows, and other live entertainment. I love the beauty of watching people showcase their talents and passions.

Many years ago I realized the cost of live entertainment wasn’t really realistic with the way my life was going. I had kids to care for, a partner that was a compulsive gambler, and it seemed like I was doing everything in my power to merely survive.

Occasionally we went to a comedy club or something of that nature, but most of the things I desired were just not going to happen. Shortly before the world shut down I began making it a point to travel and go see different shows. If something came up that I could do, I did it.

I made a pact with myself in the beginning of 2020 that I would do and experience everything I possibly could because this life is short, after all. I had already been on a couple of trips and went to a couple of shows when everything changed.

The realization that not only was my life short, but these shows and artists may not always be available started to sink in in a different way. When the opportunity arose to start enjoying these parts of life again, I jumped on every single one that I could. Even if it was something I’d usually turn my nose up to because it wasn’t “my thing.”

In 2021 I got to do and experience so much, even with all of the uncertainty. I started to look through my memories of all the travel and live entertainment I got to experience. My goal is a minimum of one trip or experience every month. I’ve been able to stick to that. I budget accordingly, though I have gone over my budget when opportunities presented themselves.

I did some traveling that was work related, but was able to take advantage of some entertainment on some of those trips. Such as seeing the Glen David Andrews Band in New Orleans. I don’t listen to a lot of blues, but the experience was phenomenal. I was lucky enough to see them twice last year.

My family got to experience “Ha Breath of Life” in Hawaii. One of my daughter-in-law’s classmates was one of the performers. Taking in a small piece of the culture and history, along with the spectacular performers, was an incredible experience.

We went to the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville and got a backstage tour. That evening we caught the weekly show. I’m not really a country music fan, though I like a few artists. Hearing the history and what it means to country artists to stand in that circle and be invited to join the Opry was amazing. I had the chills for most of it. I think it’s the equivalent to an author becoming a New York Times Best Selling Author (or better).

I went to a few comedy shows in Las Vegas with established comedians, as well as open mic nights. A friend of mine joined me for a trip to North Carolina to see three of my favorite comedians. The 85 South Show (featuring Chico Bean, Karlous Miller, and DC Youngfly) was just as hilarious as we expected. We celebrated my younger son’s birthday by going to see Dave Chapelle. We finished the year out watching Martin Lawrence host the Lit AF Tour.

I also got to see a series of concerts featuring favorites from my teen years and more recent artists. Some of these include 98 Degrees, John Legend, Bruno Mars, J. Cole, 21 Savage, Morray, and Usher.

So far, I’ve maintained that same energy in 2022. I haven’t gone on as many trips so far, but I have a few planned. I’m definitely taking advantage of the live entertainment coming back into play in Vegas, California, and wherever else I may find myself.

What types of live entertainment do you prefer?