 MANIA - The ABBA Tribute (Formerly ABBA MANIA) November 10, 2022 The Adler Theatre www.adlertheatre.com Davenport, Iowa I was excited for us to be performing in Davenport, Iowa, at the historic and gorgeous Adler Theatre, which was built in 1926. The beauty of the original Radio-Keith-Orpheum's Art Deco style was reflected in its gold leaf ceiling, crystal light fixtures, and black ebony, walnut, and marble detail. Much of that original movie theatre style remains and continues to recall the rich history of the Adler Theatre. TODAY The beautifully restored theatre continues to present a diverse line-up of live theatrical productions featuring celebrity headliners, first-rate Broadway shows, comedians, musical groups, and more. While playing at the beautiful theater was great, I was mostly looking forward to seeing my good friend Libby Lystiuk, her Mom, and a host of other people I have met during my time in Iowa. If you have been keeping up with my blogs, you will remember a couple of blogs back; I informed you that Hana felt she was getting ill. She did not improve and unfortunately developed COVID and had to leave the tour unexpectedly. All of us were severely disappointed, but none as much as Hana. Thankfully, Kirbi Jo Long was available to fly in and cover the rest of the tour for her. For long-time fans of MANIA and ABBA MANIA, you will remember Kirbi Jo Long very well since she and Alison Ward were the first touring ladies for the band. While I was disappointed and sad that Hana had to leave, I was excited to see Kirbi again, for it had been a few years since our paths had crossed. Being the pro she is and being very well-versed in the show, it only took two shows for everything to return 100%.         The day passed quickly; before I knew it, I was having dinner with Libby at a local Indian restaurant and catching up. Believe it or not, I have never had Indian food before, and she raved about it, so I was looking forward to trying it. Well, I loved it, and we both stuffed ourselves. I was pretty satiated and looked forward to an energetic show. Much to my surprise, just the opposite happened. I don't know what they put in Indian food, but it was like I had taken three sleeping pills. When I got on stage, I had to fight the urge to yawn frequently and concentrate hard to make it through the show! I found Libby in the audience and noticed she was often yawning, also. HaHa! Note to self, the next time I eat Indian food, make sure I am going directly to bed after dinner, not onstage! The theatre was packed, and the audience was very enthusiastic and responsive. Kirbi and Alison rocked, and it seemed like old times again. Afterward, I went out front to see Libby and her Mom and to take photos with some of Kathy Mullen's friends who had also come to see me. We all had a few laughs, took some pics, and then I took a quick shower and headed back to the bus. It was a great night, even though I felt I got more sleep onstage than I usually get on the bus. :-)              
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