petergabriel.com

My kids (ages 8 and 11) really like Peter Gabriel. They love watching the Growing Up DVD. What I'm wondering is if they'll like the New Blood shows. Is it just him standing and singing or are there any real theatrics. I'd hate to waste the money on tickets for them if they'll be bored. Any insight would be helpful!

Hi Stymie2000, I think it's great that your kids (8 and 11) really like Peter Gabriel - that's how it is and always has been in my family - sort of like DNA testing - if the kid doesn't like/know a PG song by the age of 5, well, we just begin to wonder whose kid it is :-] :-] (So far, everyone has passed the test :-]). Joking aside, as much as kids might enjoy PG's songs and dvd, I honestly do not think they would enjoy this particular show. There are die-hard PG fans who appreciate this show for what it's worth, yet would not enjoy it as much as his other shows. The New Blood Orchestra is wonderful and PG has found a whole new medium to perform some truly great songs, but 99% of the show, PG is standing and singing, very little movement (certainly no segway, zorbs, etc.) and the audience, no matter how enthusiastic, tend to remain seated and fairly still. It's during the really traditional songs (Solsbury Hill) that there's any real movement. So, my advice/insight to you would be to NOT spend money on tickets for the kids, but go to the show yourself and enjoy it. When the dvd comes out, the kids can watch it and hopefully soon afterward, there will be a new PG tour with his regular style. Kind regards,

Thanks for the feedback. Looks like you saved me a few hundred dollars!

To be honest, I disagree with Pat Parker. I am 13 years old (signed onto Dads account) and I first saw Peter Gabriel on my 12th birthday (and again on my 13th this year) and I enjoyed both concerts. They were entertaining and I even sang along to the ones I knew. Your 2 kids may be very tired at the end depending on the time but the only time I was bored was during the few songs I did not know and during the start and interval. Depending on how many songs they know I am sure they would enjoy the one engaging with the audience and the lively ones (darkness, Solsberry hill). The orchestra was dramatic and enjoyable, much better than a band in my opinion. My favourites were the actual Scratch My Back songs. On the other hand, even if you do not go then they can still watch the DVD. I know I will.

:-] Agree with you, Omiman. Seeing a whole orchestra playing is for kids a wonder in itself, maybe more than for adults. Having the chance to do it through songs a rarity ! Then, do not hesistate in briniging them with you :-]

The show does seem focus more on the music and less on the theatrics. But I would suggest playing a song to them off Scratch My Back, or something of that effect. If they're into it, well there's your answer. I have no doubts that children of their age could enjoy it, but it's not for everyone, as so many people have made us aware since SMB's release

I was sat behind some kids at the Apollo. They were well behaved, quiet, seemed to be watching the show throughout. Though. about half way through they looked a little bored and one had their head on mummy's shoulder. I think it just depends on what kinda kids they are and also, as with us all, how big PG fans they are!

Will Kids Enjoy it? No they won't.