JosephBurke.com

20th Anniversary Fan Meet (A Night of Bliss)

// August 3rd, 2011 // No Comments » // Joe's Blog

Going into this fan meet, many fans didn’t realize all the planning, hour long phone conversations with NYC over the past several months and the ups/downs. Let me be the first to express that this fan meet wasn’t an easy one to plan, but the fact we did, and the outcome was so much more amazing than any of us had ever dreamed is a true testament to the power of this awesome online community of fans. We’ve been meeting up in cities for so long now, many of us consider ourselves more than just friends, rather more of a family feel. We’re all very close.

The fan meet began outside of John Pizzeria in the middle of Times Square around 3:30PM. Fans were walking up and introducing themselves, old friends were reunited, and new friends were made with open arms. I kept thinking to myself, “Is this really happening? Are all of these great people of which I’ve talked to for years online and have met previously here right now?” I had to pinch myself to make sure this all wasn’t a dream. To say my brain circuitry was on overload is an understatement. We all just couldn’t stop smiling. It was like time stood still for these few hours, and the focus wasn’t on ourselves, but everyone and everything around us. It was an awesome intense feeling of euphoria and bliss.

During the dinner, fans indulged on some delicious Italian cuisine of NYC style pizza. I paused many moments, stopped and looked around at all the smiling faces as they were carrying on their own table conversations and breaking the ice with new fans. It was an pretty powerful thing to see everyone from all walks of life focus on one thing that we all have a passion for in life, Blue Man Group.

The show itself, wow, what more can I say that already hasn’t been noted online? I am so blessed to have been there and have been a part of this momentous occasion. As the show began, I had another one of those moments where I stopped, looked around at all the fans, and as they looked back at me with smiles bigger than their faces, I realized that something truly remarkable was about to happen on stage.

The culmination of ten years have for me as a fan and Insider come down to this, I finally get to see the iconic three original founding Blue Men, get bald and blue one final time for us the fans. I can tell you, emotions were bubbling within me I hadn’t felt in years. I felt a exuberance of life burst through me, and I was instantly reminded of the glory days of fan meets between 2002-2007 in Chicago and beyond. I had “the feeling” all over again. And then, just when I didn’t expect it, during gumballs and marshmallows, the lights came on, and standing before us was the founding members Chris, Matt and Phil. I’m sure by now you’ve seen the video Part 3 to the NYC series, as the whole theater erupts with cheers of joy and accomplishment. It was at that moment, I Joe Burke, an almost 32 year old man, teared up.

I was immediately catapulted back to my old days of running the Blue Man Library, and doing my best to capture Blue Man Group on television for the fans. Finally, after watching old video clips dozens of times, and seeing them only in 2 dimensional space of a computer monitor, there they were standing before us, bald and blue, and completely in character. There is no word in the English dictionary to remotely describe that feeling at that moment, but I’m sure it was palpable by everyone in that theater.

And then, the moment that really clinched my heart, was when the founders graced the stage one more time for PVC IV, one of their most noted pieces of the show. I was instantly taken back to that cold brisk November night in 1999, my old bedroom in Kentucky watching the “Tonight Show with Jay Leno” and experiencing Blue Man Group for the very first time. And who was it that performed on Leno? The founders of course. All of this was rushing through my head, and then I felt something cold run down my cheek, and I then realized I had tears of joy. My experience as a Blue Man Group fan had finally come full circle, and the efforts we put forth in planning this meet had all payed off.

Another highlight was the merging of fan groups. We’re delighted and overjoyed at the fact that we’re now working more closely than ever with our European fans and their site BMGFans.com. As I write this almost with misty eyes, it gives me such a wonderful accomplished feeling to see Hans, Marco and Brett carrying the fan base torch not only for Europe, but for the world Internationally. I gave up BML because I could not afford the server costs and expenses. They stepped up in a time I could not, and for doing that, BMGFans.com, I’ll always be indebted to you. As all the leaders of the fan communities embraced in a hug, and opened our hearts, we all began to realize the bigger picture.

Blue Man Group is what led us here, and Blue Man Group is the driving force behind ultimately what we do. We follow our bliss, and we as “family” gather not only to see shows, but to reconnect and be in familiar company. This has been the past ten years of my life. It’s what I know, it’s what we do, it’s who we are. We are fans, always have, always will be.

The Insiders,
Joe & Alex Burke

Another Year, ‘What A Dream’

// January 7th, 2011 // No Comments » // Joe's Blog

Since 2006 I’ve been putting together these annual ‘year in review’ video clips that sort of document the highlighted moments that happened throughout the year. But, this year is very different. My life has been endlessly documented on film all year long, so what’s the need for creating a long and boring 15 minute year in review clip?

2010 brought many great things my way, and I do mean great things. It all started when Alex and I were asked to come NYC for a new job that would let us travel the States, and perform ‘Random Acts of Kindness’ to deserving individuals, who otherwise wouldn’t be able to see a show or afford merchandise. It’s an idea that spawned from the mind of Blue Man Group co-founder Chris Wink, and brought to light in April 2010. The following month, we were invited to NYC to go over the details of this amazing, once in a lifetime opportunity, and brought into the family and world of Blue Man Group officially for the first time. Since then, The Insiders ‘Joe & Alex’ have traveled on NCL’s Norwegian EPIC cruise ship, Fayettville, AR, Dallas, TX, Denver, CO, Las Vegas, NV and soon to be in 2011 Atlanta, GA. The Insiders adventure has been an ongoing blessing, and seeing people’s face light up with excitement is all the reward we need.

The Insiders in Denver, CO handing out complimentary merchandise, and greeting the fans of Blue Man Group before the show.

Another milestone event this year locally here in Orlando was the opening of ‘The Wizarding World of Harry Potter’ at Islands of Adventure theme park. Both Alex and myself being huge fans of the books and previous films, were mind blown when we got experience the world of Harry unlike any other. Trust me, there’s nothing like sipping on a cold butter beer while sitting on a bench in Hogsmeade. The grand opening on June 18th was celebrated with fanfare, the stars from the films were on hand, and like the troopers we are, we had to have our fix as well. Enjoy the video!

Another huge even for us in 2010 was addition to a member of our family, Bella Burke. She is a 3lb bouncing Chihuahua, and loves to play with her ball, snuggle with mommy and daddy on the couch or in bed, and loves to ride around in the car. She’s a wonderful pup, and we’re so blessed to have her as a part of our home and family.

One milestone I have to mention was having my mother and father in Orlando over the Summer. My dad has been to Orlando twice, but mother has never been in Florida. Having them here was almost like a dream come true. For the first time, I got to introduce them to Mickey Mouse, Magic Kingdom and most importantly, the ocean. Neither of them had seen the beach or ocean before, and as my parents waded out into the warm tropical water off Coco Beach, FL, my heart felt so blessed that I was able to show them this awesome experience. My family returned to Orlando 2 more times in 2010, and rounded up their stay over Christmas with us here at our home.

Finally, the momentous event of 2010 was of course my wedding. Never before in my life have I anticipated one event so much, and dreaded to see the day end so fast. My wedding was like a dream, I remember everything I done that day, but it went by so fast, it felt like I lived my life outside of my body. The surreal feeling of marrying your soul mate, partner and best friend is overwhelming, and proudly I married the love of my life on 10-10-10 with a host of friends and family. We were married on the grounds outdoors at the ‘Orlando World Center Marriott Resort’ and our reception was just inside from the wedding location in one of their ballrooms. I don’t like to brag, but our wedding went off without a single glitch. I prayed so hard for nothing to go wrong and everything to work according to plan. I didn’t want one of those candid ‘America’s Funniest Home Video’ moments to ruin the biggest day of our lives. Luckily, nothing bad happened. We had a fairy tale wedding, went on a romantic Caribbean cruise for our honeymoon and now we’re happily married and enjoying every day together.

The wedding of Joe & Alexandra Burke, 10-10-10 ‘Orlando World Center Marriott Resort’

New York Aftermath, Blue Man Welcoming

// May 29th, 2010 // 8 Comments » // Joe's Blog

The trip to NYC this time around was probably the most humbling experience I have felt as a person to date in my 10 years plus relationship with Blue Man Group. It’s interesting how retrospective your life can evolve, given the right motivation, good fortune and willingness to cooperate and make a fresh start. Such is the case with me now. I won’t say much about my position with Blue Man Productions until they make the official announcement on June 10th, but rest assured, it’s going to be something that’s been long overdue and just in time to rejuvenate the audience relations perspective as a whole. Never before has Blue Man Group marketing entered this territory of relations, and the eye opening reality that this exactly what needed to happen next with the company. I am just in awe to be a part of this change, process and yes, I can officially say part of the BMP family now. To certain friends who read my blog up in NYC, you know who you are, blessings to you, and thanks for keeping up to date with me and my world.

With Blue Man Group co-founders Chris Wink on left, and Phil Stanton on the right.

Documenting the Lips & Eyes Shoot at BMP’s 3rd Street “Playground” space.

With Blue Man Group at the Astor Place theater. This is senior blue man, Randall Jaynes.

Alexandra with senior blue man actor Brian Scott at Astor Place Theatre.

This trip was mainly focused around a business aspect, but there was some down time to enjoy the sites and sounds that this great city has to offer. NYC has a heart that will never stop beating, a conscious that will never be altered and a spirit unlike non-other. There is bad in NYC, but the good most certainly outweighs the bad in retrospect. Alexandra and I got the chance for the first time to hang out in the most somber places in the city, Central Park. Not only was the romantically invigorating, but peaceful at the same time. Watching the ducks, turtles and geese swimming around the pond calmed me right down and gave the chance for me and my lovely wife to be to take it all in, slow down and think about all the blessings that has just been granted to us in life. Count your blessings, daily, it will motivate you to keep fighting the good fight.

Me and Alexandra at Central Park on the corner of 59th.

Central Park bridge, noted in many movies and NYC landmark.

Alexandra loving every minute of riding the NYC Subway

We also got the chance to to see our first official Broadway musical, “American Idiot the Musical” inspired by the rock band Green Day. Sitting there, watching the songs of the album by Green Day “American Idiot” come to life on stage gave new meaning to me in the times we’re living in. Green Day are geniuses when it comes to the concept of this album, and really speaks as a rock anthem to the society when you study the lyrics closely. Not many artists/bands compose such masterpieces these days, and the whole album is really a reflective glimpse of society and living life in a post 9-11 era of New York City. Overcoming drug addiction, being recruited by the military and living life as a deadbeat was the underlying themes for this production, and it was grounded by phenomenal acting, harmonic singing and a rock atmosphere that was just as electric as a concert performed by Green Day themselves. There were scenes of the production that almost tugged at your heart and made you emotional when reflecting back on the events of September 11th, and Green Day’s song “Wake Me Up When September Ends” flowing beautifully into this selection. Wow… I highly recommend you see and experience this production at Times Square in New York, and here’s two little tips for those of you planning to see it. Tip #1, As you exit the theater, take the time to add your signature to the hallway leading into the lobby, make your mark, say something, and you’ll be a part of Broadway history. Tip #2, As you exit the theater entirely, hang by the barricades outside and be patient as the performers come out of the theater to sign autographs and take photos with their beloved audiences. The actors are so polite and considerate, they really make you feel appreciative, so don’t by shy in asking for a photo and signature on your PlayBill.

The “Fan Wall” of guest signatures which covers the entire entrance hallway to the St. James theatre.

Alexandra signing the “Fan Wall” after the show.

Alexandra with 2010 Grammy Performer and American Idiot cast member Rebecca Naomi Jones.

There was so much more things that happened on this trip that I would love to talk about, but I’m holding back. Another time, another blog another chapter. Blessings to you all!

Me and Alexandra, taking it all in before we ended our night at Times Square.

View from Times Square, and how we rounded up our NYC travels on day two.

For more pictures from this trip, click here to visit my Flickr page.

Tonight Belongs to…

// January 28th, 2010 // No Comments » // Joe's Blog

I have never reviewed a true Broadway show before, but I was so inspired tonight after seeing the performance of Phantom at the Bob Carr Center in downtown Orlando, FL that I just had to give it a go. Bob Carr is a small stage compared to other stages I’ve been to, but the seating capacity at just around 2,500 isn’t small either. After seeing the movie and bits and pieces of the footage from the NYC Production of Phantom, I was amazed at how much the staff, and stagehands fit onto the smaller 36ft. stage area. Amazingly, it was pulled off without a single glitch, and the rigs, lighting, effects, dioramas and props all fit perfectly on the stage. But, then again, the original stage in NYC, The Majestic, is only 37ft in depth, so there really isn’t that much of a difference.

For me, having never seen Phantom in full production was a little humbling. I’ve heard so much about this production in the tabloids, but one never thought I’d have the blessed chance to go see it one day. And we had prime seating in row HH, which is only 8 rows back from the main Orchestra area. The show production quality was very sophisticated and elaborate set designs that made the audience sink into the realm of the Phantom. With the towering golden angelic statues that dawned the sides of the stage to the centerpiece of the magnificent chandelier, the opening moments of Phantom was a bit of “WOW” moment. As the chandelier rose above the audience and the stage is revealed, everyone is captivated to center stage.

The vocals, acting and even technical engineering of this production was superb. There wasn’t a single blip, falter or issue with the sound, tech or lighting. Again, hats off to the amazing crew of Phantom and the “Florida Theatrical Association” for bringing such great productions on the road to Orlando. The actors were brilliant, and portrayed their roles with the up-most sincerity, and I felt captivated the entire production. I didn’t feel like I was in the theater for a little over two hours. I found myself fully absorbed in the world of Phantom, and frankly, that’s the way it should be. If you live in the Orlando area, and are curious about this show, please do yourself a favor now and order your tickets. It’s well worth it, and you’ll be as mesmerized as I was, I guarantee it. Keep in mind, opera and theater is not for everyone, but anyone who appreciates talent and entertainment will thoroughly enjoy this Orlando production.

Truly, this night, belonged to Phantom…

2009 Pictorial Year in Review

// January 9th, 2010 // 1 Comment » // Joe's Blog

Each year I compose a video that showcases the highlights of my life of the previous year. This is my fourth year doing it, and I’m proud to bring you the 2009 edition of my “Year in Review.” 2009 was jam packed with non stop fun, friends, travel and just blessings from every corner. The music used in this are as follows: Mike Oldfield – Angelique, Bubba Ho-Tep OST (Brian Tyler) – The King, Bubba Ho-Tep OST (Brian Tyler) – Bubba’s Lament, Ryan Farish – Open Sky, Ryan Farish – Sunshine, Ryan Farish – Learning To Fly, Ryan Farish – Wonderfall.

2009 Pictorial/Video Year in Review from Joe Burke on Vimeo.