Jennie and I made our first trip to "The Whiting" in Flint Tuesday night for a special show. We found ourselves there after I saw a flyer at Michigan Radio a couple of weeks ago.
We were doing our semi-annual volunteer work during the Michigan Radio pledge drive, when I noticed that--for a pledge of $300--you could get tickets and a special meet-and-greet opportunity with Garrison Keillor. No, we did not take that deal. We actually opted for the Ira Glass "This American Life" 2-CD set (we are now also day sponsors!)
However, seeing that Garrison was coming to Flint prompted me to ask Jennie if we could go. She (semi reluctantly) agreed. I am a big fan! I was introduced to Garrison Keillor after seeing a series on the Disney Channel early in my youth. I also started reading "Lake Wobegon Days" at the age of 8 or 9 (a book I borrowed from Dad.) So I've always been fond of his amazing storytelling abilities. If you don't know of Garrison Keillor or "Lake Wobegon Days" or "A prairie Home Companion," it's time to get educated on one of the best storytellers of all time. Just do a Google search!
Anyway, I purchased tickets for the balcony (all that was left.) Since I knew the experience was primarily an auditory one, our seat location didn't matter much. However, it turned out to be our lucky night! We ran into a friend who was there. He was handing out those promotional tickets, and he had a no-show. So, we were upgraded to orchestra-center AND got to participate in the meet-and-greet!
I can now tell you from experience that Mr. Keillor is tall! He's also just as funny in person as he is on the radio. We talked a bit about modern TV and radio education and how we both agreed that knowing how to do a formatted show is only part of the equation. Knowing how to keep interest and tell a good story is the other--and probably more important.
I told Garrison we'd come see him in St. Paul sometime soon!
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