THE TERRY WOGAN SHOW

27th October 1989

During his 1989 Ireland/UK concert tour

Neil appeared on the Terry Wogan Show.

Neil was the only guest on the half hour show that night.   It was recorded the previous evening in the BBC Television Theatre in Shepherds Bush, London. Recording was due to start at 5 p.m. Doors were due to open at 3.45 p.m.. Crowds started queuing at 1 p.m.  Neil however had beaten everyone - he had arrived at the studio at noon. The fanclub had been given a ticket allocation and fans were there in large numbers.  This was something that all Neil fans had dreamt of - a small studio and Neil talking and singing right there in front of you!

The doors eventually opened and in poured the crowd.  The anticipation was electrifying.  We've waited on many concerts beginning but this was something extra special.  Perhaps it was not knowing exactly what to expect that gave it an extra buzz.

The stage manager gave his talk - told us it was to be recorded straight through like a live show and told us he might be encouraging us to cheer and applaud at certain times (Oh yes! As if we would need to be encouraged!).  A warm-up comedian had to be suffered and eventually Terry was introduced.  He chatted, took up his opening position and the music began.  During the music we could see Neil come on behind the suspended scenery and take up his position.

And then .... we were off!!

The backdrop rose and there was Neil looking great.  The taped accompaniment began and he started with the newly released This Time.

As This Time finished the music started up for Forever In Blue Jeans.  We were all on our feet immediately and getting into the swing of things.

After the interview we were treated to yet another song - a great rendition of another one from The Best Years Of Our Lives album  - Baby Can I Hold You

All too soon the show was over.  Terry Wogan stood beside Neil and closed the show. The cameras went off and the stage manager asked if we would mind remaining whilst they did a trailer ad for the show .. as if we were all going to rush out with Neil still standing in the middle of the stage in front of us!  Neil and Terry did a cute little double act (a couple of times) and then Terry signaled to Neil to follow him off.   Neil however had other plans - he came down the steps off the stage area right into the front rows and started giving hugs and kisses all around.  Bodyguard, Terry, eventually came and dragged Neil away as the crowd around him threatened to engulf him - everybody wanted a kiss whilst they were on offer! 

So it was a final wave and off he went.

What a memorable evening.

Out into the London rain after the show