Whilst concerts by their very nature are largely structured, staged and controlled by the performer – as part of his current UK tour, Shaun Ryder has decided to cut that safety net to a certain extent and pass back the control to the audience.
This unconventional approach could create somewhat of a terrifying experience for both parties involved. For the fans to have the confidence to stand up in front of a crowd and delve into Shaun Ryder’s fame or persona, and on the other hand for the artist himself to have to answer probing questions in front of a room full of strangers.
And with a packed out crowd in attendance at Riverside Newcastle, our favourite night of the weekend becomes a Happy Saturday indeed. And whilst this may not necessarily be the first time an artist has been questioned on stage in front of a room full of fans, Ryder’s approach is certainly different and entirely refreshing.
The first half of the evening sees Creation Records legend Alan McGee poise questions to Ryder. And having managed the Monday’s frontman for some time, he certainly knows which areas to probe to make the show interesting to those in attendance. However, once that baton or microphone is passed in this instance to a hall full of super fans, the artist must expect the unexpected.
Have you ever wondered how Shaun Ryder would approach Brexit, solve Newcastle United’s woes, or his thoughts on appearing in I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here? Then this is the event for you.
This evening no topic is deemed too off the wall, and it’s fair to say that the Newcastle crowd don’t hold anything back. And despite the sometimes personal nature of these topics, the Manchester legend remains cool, calm and collected throughout.
The beauty of tonight’s event is that everyone in attendance takes something different away from the proceedings. Whether that be insight, advice, or a more permanent souvenir such as a selfie, a treasured autograph or a prime position on the stage near the man himself. This evening’s q and a was certainly enjoyable as much as it was inspiring.