I scat, you scat, Muscat

This country and city are at the southern end of the Persian Gulf and part of the larger Arabian Peninsula. We don’t get to this part of the world very often.  I’ve been in this region probably six or eight times over the years.   These are countries where you quickly become aware of a difference in dress, but these days, I think the whole world is relatively accustomed and comfortable with many kinds of international apparels.

The folks who greeted us were accustomed to hosting international guests, with perfect english and an accommodating welcome. They made getting through Immigration so quick and easy, that it was remarkable. It was a long day’s travel, nearly 24 hours, so we were all very glad to get to bed. The following day, we did some press, which turned out to be fun and humorous. The journalists spoke english – one was British – and we laughed and joked about being British, and not!

The performance venue was the Royal Muscat Opera House, which was modern and simple in structure. Lots of straight lines and right angles and arch shaped windows, but with a little flare of ornate filigree and chandeliers. The performance area had a huge back stage for storing and building operatic sets. Remarkably big. The audience had cushioned seats and four balconies. I could reach out and touch the first row… every time this proximity occurs, you find yourself remarking, and sometimes out loud to the audience, “how wonderful it is to be so close to you!” They get it, too, when that’s happening.

Here lately, in the last several years, I’ve been commenting on our getting to perform for new audiences who  are first timers with me and the band. Even at home, in America, we’re meeting new people, and LOVING IT! And so, when that also happens abroad, it’s really a treat because the response is so enthusiastic and fresh.  But you would have been amazed how they sang along on Nitaku (I will be here for you), and “We’re in This Love Together,” and other very spontaneous phrases that I asked them to sing.

When we finished, they were on their feet and showed a lot of love to the whole band as we went down front. Chris was a big hit, as usual., and they screamed loud for Mark, and Joe and John and Larry, when I introduced them. We all exited and Larry and I came back with a nice surprise… Summer Time. They were on their feet and danced during Roof Garden. It seems like they’d like us to return soon, and so would I! Thank you, Oman.

-Al