I wish I could give an infinity star rating...
by Amalthea on 11/18/17Count Basie Theatre - Red BankRating: 5 out of 5I'm a big fan of Puddles (and Mike Geier) but this was my very first Pity Party, so I was REALLY excited. I'd never been to the Count Basie Theater before and my visit didn't leave me disappointed. The venue is beautiful, there was a lot of parking available nearby (in municipal lots and on the streets; I found a spot right around the corner) and the staff was incredibly friendly... especially a particularly warm and funny lady named Sue who showed me to my seat. Can't forget the hysterical bathroom attendant lady, either, who kept things light-hearted with everyone standing in the long, post-show bathroom line. Really, really friendly staff in general. And even friendlier fans! I've been to a lot of concerts, but Puddles fans are a special breed. I was by myself and knew no one, but people were chatting with me left and right. It was a wonderful atmosphere.
And then, of course, out came PUDDLES! The moment this man opened his mouth, I melted into my seat. His voice sounds like chocolate mousse tastes. Just warm and rich and soothing and... like heaven on Earth really. Without spoiling the show for those who haven't been to a Pity Party yet, you'll laugh and cry and even the clownphobic will fall head-over-heels in love with this big, cuddly clown with the sad face and golden voice. Puddles's stage presence is spell-binding and his voice gives goosebumps on every available inch of skin. He is AMAZING. I can't praise him enough. He will leave you breathless. Sometimes with laughter, sometimes with bittersweet reverie, sometimes with too many emotions to sort through at once... but it feels incredible.
Afterwards, if you want to brave the long line of admirers, he hangs around for hugs and photos. I got both. Puddles gives great cuddles and sweetness radiates from him like a warm sunbeam. Up close, he has long eyelashes and very pretty-colored eyes. They look brown in photos, but have obvious undertones of green and gold when you see them in person. He is an extremely sweet human being and I'm still on Cloud 9 from having been blessed enough to be part of such a wonderful night.
Thanks Puddles and Count Basie Theater. :)