Sunday night I was invited to go to a Josh Groban concert downtown with my dear friend Bruce. I haven’t been to too many concerts and plus Josh has an amazing voice so I jumped at the opportunity. We took the trolley from Mission Valley to the Civic Center, and walked maybe a block to the Balboa Theatre.

The Balboa Theatre itself opened in the 1920s as a 1,500 single balcony playhouse where many vaudeville perfomances and films were shown. The original neon sign was lost but was replaced in the 1970s with this current sign which still stands, (see below). During WWII, the theatre was used as Navy office space/sailor housing. In the late 50’s the theatre was expected to be demolished. Over the next few decades many organizations and historic societies fought to save and purchase the building. And now here it stands. And I was here that night, to see one of my favorite singers with a good friend, in a very intimate, private show.

Bruce and I found our seats in the balcony, which were still very good seats, and sat in anticipation of the show. We were not supposed to have cameras I might add, I asked an usher if I could take a picture and she looked at me like I had just committed a crime. So I snuck in a few shots when I could. This was when we were getting some water before the show in the lobby.

When they dimmed the lights and drew the curtains…Josh was on stage. But not as you would expect him, in front of his piano, or microphone. He was lying down on a couch with his dog. It was great! He had a couple couches, an area rug, a couple instruments, and one back up singer. That was his stage.
I took a picture of it but I dont know how well you can see…

Well his set list was great. His first song was “Changing Colors” a song he did with Neil Young. He also did alot of music off his new album, Illuminations. He did mix his classical/opera sound with his Italian opera songs, with his English romantic ballads.

He also interacted with the audience, I have never seen anything like it. He was giving people wine, answering their questions, talking to people directly. And he was surprisingly entertaining! I mean that he had a sense of humor that wasn’t offensive or dry. He was just right. I really enjoyed it.

After the show Bruce and I jumped back on the trolley, while it was moving. No not really. But that would be cool. I took a picture of the trolley, I guess I was just taking pictures of everything because I was so excited. I couldn’t tell if Bruce was nearly as excited, but I am guessing guys do not show it outwardly, or well not like I do anyway.

So after the trolley ride, we went to my new favorite late night stop, Ruderfords. Open 24hrs? I think? Last time Bruce and I went I ordered Huevos Rancheros and it was amazing…this time I had Eggs Benedict…also amazing… Bruce had the Spinach and cheese omelette. Love that place…Anyway so after a late Sunday night of festivities I got home around midnight…not quite used to the time change yet..and went right to bed…Thanks again Bruce! I had an amazing time!

• Uncategorized