(This is Andy)
Aix-en-Provence is a small, traditional French city that lends itself to puns in English. We spent four hours there this morning walking around downtown. The groups mingled and wandered. Tuesday was market day as well, so one of the squares was filled with vendors offering fresh cheeses, vegetables, meats, fish, and the like.
During the afternoon we drove about an hour south to Toulon on Mediterranean coast. Place de l’Opera is a good-sized public square in the middle of town with several cafes around the perimeter. Dominating the scene is the spectacular 19th (?) century facade of the theater. At one end of the square, the festival had set up a big stage, complete with lighting and sound-board. After a sound-check, the festival hosts set up a pasta dinner for us outside a restaurant on a narrow street in the old part of town.
Tonight’s crowd was the biggest yet, close to 500 according to our highly accurate fan-counting methodology. The festival asked for a long set and got it, 90 minutes, with an encore and a standing ovation. The weather was perfect — a warm, clear night, a full moon, and an enthusiastic crowd.
Tomorrow is a long day on the bus as we head into Italy.
What a great tour you all are having! Fine photos, interesting narrative, Ben. Trip is going fast! We’re eager to hear more about it all!
Ben, Andy and Betsy
I gobble up every word, photo. Thank you Thank you.
I am so happy for you and only wish I was there.
Barbara
Ditto Barbara’s comment. Sunny and dry (should we call it summer?) starting here. It will be safe to return! Thanks for taking your precious vacation time to keep us in the loop.
We(Neil and myself and both sets of Noah’s grandparents) are all soaking in every word and all the amazing pics.
Thank-you- Thank-you!
What an amazing experience for the band!