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Take That - masters of the live show.That's it. I've decided I'm running away with The Circus. I've always been a bit of a tomboy. I reckon I could perfect some lion taming. I like to dress a bit colourfully, so maybe I could do the clown thing... I have no co-ordination though, so that rules out the tight-rope and the unicycles... OK, so I don't have many obvious skills to bring to the table but last Saturday night in Croke Park I was convinced that it would be a pretty cool job, if they'd have me.

Elephants, giant inflatable men, tightrope walkers, fireworks...
That elephant... so impressive!Take That's latest tour is a non-stop gasp-fest. I went along to Croke Park expecting to have a good time (after all I've loved them since I was about ten-years-old) but the show that I saw completely surpassed all my expectations. It was just such a spectacular visual experience. Everything about The Circus was amazing. Yeah, last week I wrote about Beyoncé's gig being one of the best I've ever been to, and it was. She has an amazing voice and brilliant natural presence, but Take That just took my breath away. I found myself gawping at the stage like a child as all the circus acts kicked off the show and I kept a silly grin on my face right up until their final goodbye. This, folks, is how comebacks are done.

If you're a fan of Take That then you were always going to enjoy the show. Most of their new stuff from The Circus album is in there but they've also hung onto the elements that worked from their last tour, like Jason Orange's amazing performance of Wooden Boat - and, for good measure, all of the old classics from their first time out (like Relight My Fire, Could It Be Magic and A Million Love Songs) are included too. It's total sing-along fare.

Could there be a better show this year? The opening to the show was spectacular for me. First the clowns come mingle in the crowd (nice touch... particularly if you're the kind of person who feels the need to drag one of those colourfully dressed characters into a picture with you!)... then there's the entourage of circus fun - the balloons, the bright costumes, the dramatic music and a surprise entrance from the lads on the B stage - nice touch. And then it's almost all a blur. There was just too much going on to try to remember it all.

The best bits
Humour, hits and lots of fun.Afterwards you were on such an annoying high that you couldn't stop talking about the concert - but what was your favourite part? Was it the giant people-powered elephant? (Too impressive for words - go creative team!) Or was it getting hosed down with a mini-shower if you were close enough to the stage? (If anyone else had sprayed water on me at a show I might have been a little peeved but I was more than alright with that on the night). Or maybe it was the comedy touches whether intentional (some great unicycle moves) or unintentional (like poor Mark Owen's trousers splitting after a costume change - not that anyone seemed to be complaining... roughly 80,000 people were of the opinion that it was a sign and he should just shed them!).

Spectacular in every way!Or was it watching the lads dressing as clowns on stage or almost having a heart-attack watching that very brave tight-rope walker or maybe it was just reliving all the memories of their songs from down through the years or watching the pyrotechnics and fireworks display at the end? I honestly couldn't pick a stand-out highlight myself... unless I'm going to be totally biased towards Jason and pick Wooden Boat but that would be unfair, right? Mark carried on performing with a giant split in his pants. Gary held the show single-handedly at the piano churning out all the old classics that had everyone singing along. And Howard came up with the unicycle idea, which was so funny on stage.

All about the colour!When I tried to describe the concert to other very jealous people who weren't there I just couldn't seem to explain how big it all was. That's why it worked. No detail had been overlooked. It was just such a spectacle. Credit has to go to the massive crew who work on staging, choreography, special effects and all the tiny elements that together make this the kind of circus you'd never forget.

Several days later, after sleeping on it like my mother advised, I'm still not for changing my mind. Now where do I sign up to run away with this amazing circus?!

Linda McGee


 
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Comments:

I'm just glad they didn't use terrified real wild animals as some performers think they need to make they're show impressive..

Posted by Ann on June 16, 2009 at 10:55 AM BST #

I agree, it was amazing! Pure entertainment! I think my favourite was the 'Pray' dance routine.. Ah memories!

Posted by Lorraine on June 16, 2009 at 12:03 PM BST #

It was absolutely amazing!! Something that's been bugging me though, does anyone know why there were so many empty seats in the Cusack stand (down at the Davin Stand end)? The entire show was out of this world, the fireworks at the end were brill :)

Posted by Emily on June 16, 2009 at 12:22 PM BST #

I was there with my 11 year old grandaughter she was absolutely mesmorised and so was I from beginning to end bobbing and singing to our hearts content I enjoyed the kisees from her thanking me for bringing her to a most specatular show that we did not expect to see but we were utterly thrilled to be there she is still talking about it and for the pictures she took amazing

Posted by elizabeth nolan on June 16, 2009 at 12:36 PM BST #

This was the most amazing show ever, I have loved Take That from the first time I saw them on the Michael Ball show singing "Pray" when I was 14. And I felt like I was 14 again waiting for Take That to arrive on stage, I thought I was going to explode with anticipation. Loved every minute of it, and can't wait for them to go on tour again. The tickets to this concert were by far the best 30th Birthday present ever. The section in Lower Cusack/Davin was empty because the soundmen's tent was in direct line of it, so people wouldn't have been able to see the centre (pitch) stage. Even non fans should see Take That perform just once in their life to experience what a real show is........

Posted by Cait on June 16, 2009 at 01:12 PM BST #

Best concert I was ever at, and the script were a great support act,it's nice to see Irish acts getting a chance to perform at Croke Park!!

Posted by Sarah on June 16, 2009 at 01:13 PM BST #

absolutely amazing gig, well done boys, really enjoyed the whole thing! :)

Posted by Mel on June 16, 2009 at 01:44 PM BST #

I absolutely loved the show, it was a visual spectacle from beginning to end & having seen them twice already since their comeback and being impressed everytime, this was by far the best show. One gripe though (and nothing at all to do with take that) was croke park as a venue, aside from the 80000 people exiting 4 gates all at once, was the view from the pitch. We were standing halfway down, so close enough to both stages technically, however for such a visual show it was hard to see a lot of it & i felt for all intents and purposes that i could have been at home watching it on tv. That took away from some of the atmosphere for me. Overall though, amazing show and full credit to them for proving they're still a world-class act and on top of their game.

Posted by C on June 16, 2009 at 01:47 PM BST #

OH MY GOD - It was unreal! I wasnt expecting such a show and then Take That on top of that was AMAZING! I'm still reeling from it and I'm still talking about it! It was just BRILLIANT, easily the best concert I've been at ever! Bring it out on dvd so we can relive it!

Posted by Pauline on June 16, 2009 at 01:51 PM BST #

Oh my GOD what an amazing show,, the whole thing from start to finish .. i never liked take that the first time around,, Love them now and the concert was the fantastic

Posted by phill on June 16, 2009 at 01:59 PM BST #

Absolutely brilliant, I laughed and I cried. My 5th time seeing the boys and without a doubt the best yet. Can't wait to see them again. Thanks boys x

Posted by Elaine on June 16, 2009 at 02:17 PM BST #

Great show. So much work put into it all. Really well put together. Yeah I was wondering the same about the empty section in the Cusack.

Posted by Suzanne on June 16, 2009 at 02:31 PM BST #

Definitely the best gig i've ever been at. I was only going cos my friends kept telling me how great they were the last time in the point and the rds when they did their comeback so i promised i'd go to see what all the fuss was about the next time they came back. I came out of it absolutely loving take that!! i was totally amazed at the show they put on and was basically speechless except for being able to say it was amazing and i haven't stopped since! So much effort went into the show and it was absolutely brilliant. I agree with cait saying that even non fans should go and see them once - they're well worth it and you won't be disappointed. And they script were great, they seemed totally overwhelmed at getting such a great reception it was so nice to watch.

Posted by Anne on June 16, 2009 at 02:36 PM BST #

what an amazing gig! the best ever the whole thing was just amazing, and considering i found out i was going just an hour b4 they started it just added to the thrill! from the giant elephant! to the fireworks to rule the world!! it was priceless and not forget lovely jason! simply the est gig!

Posted by daisy on June 16, 2009 at 03:08 PM BST #

I have loved Take That since I was 11 years old. The concert was unbelievable. The lads were so entertaining. The best concert I have being to. I will defo run away with this circus if they asked me!!! It was by far the best 30th birthday present ever....thanks lads for an ABSOLUTE AMAZING CIRCUS STAGE SHOW...

Posted by Adelle Durcan on June 16, 2009 at 03:21 PM BST #

Unbelievable show, it was just amazing. The Boys never let the fans down, and I must admit they are even better this time around than when I saw them in the Point in 1994..Loved the Script as well, 1000 times better than their gig in The Olympia...Bit of a nightmare to get home from Croker though, walked for 45 mins just to get out of the crowds and try to get a taxi!

Posted by Naomi on June 16, 2009 at 03:31 PM BST #

Nonsense - they were crap - bubble gum air head pop with no substance

Posted by they were crap on June 16, 2009 at 04:06 PM BST #

Absolutley fantastic night.one of the best nights of my life I was totally gobsmacked can't pick the best bits they were all best bits from start to finish. I've being a fan since they started first time around, 3rd time to see them since they got back together brought my 17 yr old daughter with me we were standing up near the front my feet were killing me nx day but it was well worth it!!

Posted by Samantha on June 16, 2009 at 04:22 PM BST #

Me again loved the Script as well thought they were fab. So cute when Danny got all teary he was overcome with emotion he could't believe his look to be playing in Croke Park. Well done to them hope to see them in a few years headlining croke park

Posted by samantha on June 16, 2009 at 04:25 PM BST #

Oh My God, the concert was amazing, I was close to tears on a number of occasions. I have been to every show Take That have ever staged in Dublin and have been a loyal fan since 1992. There's no band out there that will ever come close. Well done lads, whens the next tour?!! xxxx

Posted by Janice on June 16, 2009 at 04:32 PM BST #

Best concert ever...Where can I sign up to run away with this circus....I'll carry a watermelon or something!!!!

Posted by Roisin on June 16, 2009 at 04:32 PM BST #

Unforgettable, an outstanding preformance !!

Posted by Sharon on June 16, 2009 at 05:03 PM BST #

by far the best concert i was ever at! well done boys.

Posted by Anne on June 16, 2009 at 06:59 PM BST #

What a fantastic show!!! Always loved Take That. You didnt have to be a fan to enjoy the performance. What they did on Saturday night surpassed any other concert I was at before. It was an amazing performance from start to finish. Roll on 2011.

Posted by Noeleen on June 16, 2009 at 07:41 PM BST #

What a great night , I flew in from Spain just to see the guys , Have been to every concert they have done in my area !! It was a fantastic night , Every concert they do just gets better and better , Can,t wait for the next one !!! The Script did really well too , well done guys you did us all proud ! Mark your still as gorgoues as ever

Posted by Leona on June 16, 2009 at 08:11 PM BST #

That was THE best concert ever. I was right up at the barriers and the view was spectacular. One thing that made the concert even better was the fact that it was obvious take that enjoyed it themselves. The crowd was also amazing

Posted by Katie on June 16, 2009 at 09:32 PM BST #

A M A Z I N G :)

Posted by Amanda on June 16, 2009 at 09:45 PM BST #

Absolutely fantastic, the concert was amazing. The boys put on a spectacular show. I cant believe how they can dance. I wasnt a fan 1st time round but definitely a big fan now !!!

Posted by natalie on June 16, 2009 at 10:15 PM BST #

The concert was absolutely fantastic. Lucky enough to have been right up at the B Stage, we were all prepared for a soaking but managed to stay completely dry. Have the most amazing up close pictures and videos but they can never do justice to the amazing performance Take That gave their fans. Everything was just breathtaking, all the guys looked fantastic, particularly Jason. Impressed at how, even though they are older, they still entertained their fans with the cringe worthy dance routines. No words can explain how brilliant it was but i'm sure that wont stop us talking about it for years to come. The Script were also really impressive, just wanted to hug Danny when he got emotional at the crowds response. Great to see how much it obviously meant to them, hopefully we'll be turning up to Croke Park to see them headline in a few years.

Posted by LL on June 16, 2009 at 10:35 PM BST #

I think the empty seats were restricted views cause it was a sell out. I went as a non fan and was completely blown away. Unbelievable show and hope it comes out on dvd so i can see all the bits i missed!

Posted by Annemarie on June 16, 2009 at 11:28 PM BST #

class

Posted by 127.0.0.1 on June 17, 2009 at 09:22 AM BST #

This was my first Take That concert, I was blown away. It was an Awesowe show. I have been to almost 100 concerts, this has to be one of the best. Im a Westlife fan too and have been to over 60 Westlife concerts, I got to say Take That put on a far better show.

Posted by Ciara Mc Geehan on June 17, 2009 at 09:29 AM BST #

I took my eleven year old daughter, I think she just started at the top and any concert she goes to after this couldnt possibly compete. I was near the B stage and the excitement levels when the balloons came out and started twitching, you just knew they were under them and the anticipation of waiting for them to appear AAARRRGGGHHH. It was skin tingling to see them so close. The highlights for me were the Elephant. Amazing, the translucent material and the lighting system in it, the acrobat as the tail and the acrobats working the ears. That was genius. The movement was just like an elephant. The second highlight was the fireworks timed to perfection to fire at the chorus of Rule the World. It was so beautiful, I nearly cried.

Posted by Gail on June 17, 2009 at 09:46 AM BST #

I have to agree with all the previous comments. We decided to book seats as we didn't fancy standing for 2 hours. However once the show started we danced in the ailses for the whole concert, Fantastic show. The reason for the empty seats is that CP has an 80,000 limit that includes those that were standing on the pitch.

Posted by g on June 17, 2009 at 10:43 AM BST #

After being a fan for 17 years come December I cannot describe the deeling of amazement and joy Ifelt at being in the audience. The balloons, the clowns, the acrobats, the elephant. I'm still on a high. I thought the RDS was unbeatable- Then the Oddessy. Now Croker reighs supreme.

Posted by flamered on June 17, 2009 at 11:40 AM BST #

The best concert i'v ever been to from start to finish they made my hair stand on end, question for all those girls in 5inch heels how did ye last the night standing crazy, flats all the way.. and the script did us proud so emotional for the lads brilliant, worth every penny. AMAZING SHOW xx

Posted by Sinead on June 17, 2009 at 12:38 PM BST #

Thanks for all the great comments everyone. Keep them coming. I have to say Sinead's last comment there made me laugh - I was thinking the exact same thing at the concert. How does anyone enjoy any gig in heels?! I couldn't do it, and especially not when you'll probably have to walk home afterwards because of the queues for buses and taxis. I salute ye! I wouldn't last half an hour!

Posted by Linda McGee on June 17, 2009 at 12:46 PM BST #

Loved the show so much on Saturday night I am heading over to Manchester Saturday week to see them there. Can't wait to see them perform on their home ground!!

Posted by Tipp on June 17, 2009 at 01:01 PM BST #

It was the most amazing concert/show i have ever seen in my life. Still pinching myself thinking it was a dream :)

Posted by Lisa on June 17, 2009 at 01:35 PM BST #

Awhh What Can I Say The Take That Concert Was Amazing.. The Circus Was Soooo Cool, I Felt Like A Kid Again Watching It All :-) And The Script Were Brilliant too.. The Whole Night Was Great, One Of The Best Concert I Ever Went To See, I Can Safely Say I'll Be Getting My Ticket Again If They Come Back

Posted by Sinead Bradley on June 17, 2009 at 02:16 PM BST #

Take That croke park gig, what can i say,been a fan for 15yrs and sat nite was the ultimate for a worshiping fan, gig was amazing and the boys are incredible, no other band will ever top it. Loved rule the world and was brought to tears during the oldies with original dance routines,Makr i still love you!!!

Posted by julie on June 17, 2009 at 02:19 PM BST #

Ok - let me be the brave one - the first man to post a comment - I went to the concert with my wife and 2 sisters - have to be honest I was delighted when the Script were announced at the supporting act - as I am a big fan of theirs and their debut album is amazing - they were brilliant and as a fellow Dub I was very proud of Danny and the boys' performance in their home town - but to Take That - the show was brilliant in every way - spectacular, entertaining,colourful, uplifting etc. etc. - and the songs are very good, particularly the newer ones in my view - and the lads seem to be a genuinely smashing bunch of lads- Mark seems like one of our own with his renditions of Fields of Athenry and his little Riverdance impression - a 'feel good' concert and a fantastic show - well worth the admission fee - our seats in the Hogan Upper were great too - got some really good photos - I am a new TT fan !!

Posted by Brian on June 17, 2009 at 03:16 PM BST #

Maybe this is why everyone was wearing killer heels at the concert! ;) http://www.rte.ie/arts/2009/0617/barlowg.html

Posted by Linda McGee on June 17, 2009 at 04:14 PM BST #

Just read the thing about gary and the ballet pumps. hilarious! I didn't see too many people wearing high heels at the concert, a crowd of us girls went together and we wore flats for the gig but had our high heels with us for afterwards. best plan ever!

Posted by Anne on June 17, 2009 at 05:50 PM BST #

I absolutley loved the concert from end to finish! cant wait for the next one... Well done lads! Shellxxxx

Posted by Michelle on June 17, 2009 at 08:37 PM BST #

I went to the concert with my sister and 10 year old son. I have been to a few concerts in my time but nothing as good as this. It was fantastic from start to finish. I loved the Script - they were amazing, but OMG Take That were sensational. Utterly brilliant!!!

Posted by Debbie on June 18, 2009 at 07:25 AM BST #

I loved every minute of the gig, and I have to agree that Jason singing Wooden Boat was my favourite bit. Or was it the elephant? Or maybe the whole Relight My Fire spectacle? Too many good parts to pick just one. It was such a fabulous, extravagant show that I wish I was going again tomorrow - just so I could see all the bits I missed first time around. Loved it!

Posted by TC on June 18, 2009 at 08:56 AM BST #

Loved it, loved it, loved it..........best concert ever!! Love Mark xx

Posted by Dee on June 18, 2009 at 09:34 AM BST #

The BEST concert I've ever been to!!!! Can't wait for the nest tour! :-)

Posted by Del on June 18, 2009 at 09:44 AM BST #

I thought Take That were absolutely amazing and the whole circus was brilliant. I had really good seats and could see everything. The Script were great too. I'll be back to see them again next time xxx

Posted by Lorraine on June 18, 2009 at 09:48 AM BST #

Best ever concert I was at. Take That were just too good and as for the Script!!!! What value for money. All other entertainers please take note

Posted by Kizzy on June 18, 2009 at 11:30 AM BST #

Highlight has to be touching Mark Owens hand!!! - Obviously I would have preferred to get a hold of Jason Orange but Mark will do for now.... A great concert with my Mammy, a memory I will have forever!! Thanks Lads xx

Posted by Emma on June 18, 2009 at 12:06 PM BST #

Has been great reading everyone's comments and remembering the concert. Have to agree, I couldn't have lasted in the heels I was seeing on some girls. Brilliant show, have seen them in the old Point twice before but nothing compares to Croke Park. Couldn't have asked for better weather either! Amazing performers and entertainers. Will always love them and hope they keep touring for many years to come. Got home from the gig and watched the replay of Johnathan Ross from Friday night!!!

Posted by Louise on June 18, 2009 at 12:56 PM BST #

Wow is all I can say. This concert was literally the best one i've been to! My favorite part was at the end when they sang rule the world and they set the fireworks off. Unbelievable.

Posted by Liz on June 18, 2009 at 01:55 PM BST #

Was my 1st Take That concert and after Saturdays performance it wont be the last they were amazing all singing all dancing all performing spectacular!!! I was down at the centre stage and when they sang Back for Good i was soaked!!! but worth it as i got some excellent photos!! The Script were also excellent cant wait to catch them live! Well done Danny and co you were simply outstanding in front of an 80,000 strong crowd!

Posted by Emma on June 18, 2009 at 01:59 PM BST #

Aw, I'd completely forgotten about Mark's mini-Riverdance until I read Brian's comment there. It was very funny. Fair play to him for making the effort.

Posted by Linda McGee on June 18, 2009 at 02:50 PM BST #

This was by far the best concert I have ever been to...excellent. We had 2 non TT people with us, we had promised them that was going to be the best gig ever(slightly worried we built it up too much)but they were blown away. We had such an amazing time. Cant wait to see them again...

Posted by KK on June 18, 2009 at 09:48 PM BST #

THE BEST CONCERT EVER!!!!! My first TAKE THAT and it defo wont be the last....NEVER FORGET!!!

Posted by Lisa on June 18, 2009 at 10:47 PM BST #

I also went home and watched the repeat of Jonathan Ross - even though I had already seen Take That on it on Friday night!! The concert was BRILLIANT! There was so much in it that it is so hard to describe it all. I would love to see it again, but I'm so happy to have been one of the people that did! Take That put on a show we will NEVER FORGET!! I hope they come back soon! It has been great to read all the comments in this blog.

Posted by Deirdre on June 19, 2009 at 04:33 PM BST #

The concert was out of this world. It was absolutely spectacular. Everything was so carefully planned and the two hours were seamless. I can't pick just one highlight as the whole concert just worked perfectly. As I was standing right at the B stage the first 7 songs were the highlight as they were right infront of us. The other highlight was Never Forget. The atmosphere was electric and I can only imagine what it looked like from the stage. It was an amazing concert and I don't know will any concert top it. I hope they come back next year so we can do it all again!!!

Posted by Aoife on June 22, 2009 at 08:08 PM BST #

Loved it, loved it, loved it!!! They were just fantastic. Had the best night in a long time. I have been a fan since they started and they have certainly improved with age ;) Well done lads, love yous so much :)Come back soon!!! Well done to the Script too.

Posted by Nicola on June 23, 2009 at 04:41 PM BST #

The concert was the best I was ever at and the atmosphere there was electic. Hopefully the live dvd they bring out will be from croke park. There are some great clips on youtube for those who were unlucky enough not to get a ticket!

Posted by Cats on June 30, 2009 at 04:47 PM BST #

I went to see the concert last night at Wembley, it was very emotional as it was the last night of their tour. It was totally awesome. The guys are such good singers and performers they blow me away. FANTASTIC. I love them all. Well done for such a great show. xxx Please do another tour soon. Best night of my life. xxx

Posted by Catherine from Norwich on July 06, 2009 at 05:47 PM BST #

I've really enjoyed reading all your comments everyone, so proud of Take That and how they have conducted this tour. Delighted to welcome 'new fans' as a result of their show. It's truly an experience, a life changing experience and words don't do it justice at all.

Posted by Laura T on July 08, 2009 at 06:48 PM BST #

first time seeing them, wish had seen before, speechless, brilliant

Posted by shirley kerby on July 09, 2009 at 10:53 PM BST #

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