JEFF PIKE - MANIA - FALL 2022 TOUR BLOG - DAY 8

MANIA - The ABBA Tribute (Formerly ABBA MANIA)
October 27, 2022
The State Theater
Ithica, New York
www.stateofithaca.org/


The State Theater is another lovely old theater nestled in the downtown area of the quaint city of Ithica, New York. The State is a venue we have not played before, nor to my recollection, have we ever been in Ithica until now. 

Unfortunately, I was still not in a very good space yesterday. I was still exhausted with a good case of anxiety and a lot to do online before my day was my own. I got out and about late in the day. Once I walked out of the theater's front door, I instantly regretted my decision. It was a bit cold, but the weather was beautiful, so I decided to walk as much as possible before sound check and the show. 

Sound check was short and successful, and the show was fantastic. The house was not sold out, but the people there were rabid and crazy about our performance. These kinds of audiences make us play that much better, and the evening flies by. 

The best part for me was seeing my good friend, Michael Kent. I first met Michael a few years ago on tour. He is probably our #1 fan. The year we met him, he came to about five shows in a row, and he was always front and center. He wears a glitter vest and a hat he made with our name on it. He gets into the music, so he is impossible to miss. Ithica is his hometown, so it was good having the opportunity to spend time with him on his turf. He brought his Mother, Father, girlfriend, and another superfan of ours named Mike. His last name escapes me at the moment, but he has seen us about 8 or 9 times. They will both be coming to the show tomorrow night in Englewood, New Jersey! More great memories were made. 
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