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Post by gillette on Oct 18, 2014 16:41:01 GMT
Hi,
After reading a little about the Orpheum Theater, if I were able to go to see Hayley, I would be wondering what my chances would be of seeing her "up close and personal" in one of her famous "meet and greet" sessions, the icing on the cake.
BobS
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Post by jimg on Oct 18, 2014 18:43:59 GMT
Hi, After reading a little about the Orpheum Theater, if I were able to go to see Hayley, I would be wondering what my chances would be of seeing her "up close and personal" in one of her famous "meet and greet" sessions, the icing on the cake. BobS Hi BobS, I have been lucky enough to see Hayley up close at more than half of the the concerts I have been to. It seems to me that Hayley makes the effort to meet her fans whenever she can. Once arrangements made by the concert organisers and once her travel arrangements have prevented a meet and greet. The only other times I have not been able to meet Hayley have been because of my own restrictions. Jimg |
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Post by gillette on Oct 18, 2014 19:21:26 GMT
Hi JimG,
It not being Hayley's own concert, and being leery of how accommodating this venue might be, is what prompted my post. I am sure that if it were in Hayley's hands, one would occur. They appear to be a very memorable part of her concerts.
BobS
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Post by frenchie on Oct 19, 2014 0:58:41 GMT
Bob, I would think that Hayley would come to meet us after the show since in all in tense and purposes it her show. I hope so anyway. But that is definitively a question to ask.
Libby, I looked at the Best Western on Carroll Street online. It seems like a nice place, but it's a tad bit expensive for me. I would have to go in with someone if I was to stay there.
I mention the concert to my mom tonight, and her response was not to go because of the weather. Madison being close to the Great Lakes, it will get mountains of snow in December. My mom is afraid that planes will be held up and the concert might be cancelled. And she doesn't want me to be disappointed and out of a couple hundred dollars. For you people who live up North and travel a lot (I live in Carolina where we freak out with a flurry of snow.), is this a real concern with high probability of happening? I understand there is always a chance of cancellation coming from either side- fan and singer- but it is usually low unless the singer has a reputation of cancelling shows, which Hayley doesn't. Is there ways to work around it if this is a serious problem? The weather that is. Love to hear your opinions.
Also, how many people are coming or at least planning to come for both nights? So far it sounds as if everyone is planning for Thursday night. For me, I am planning for both nights since it will cost $600 for plane tickets alone. I want to get as much bang for my buck if you understand.
Anyways, thanks for reading my ramblings. I have had today to let this sink in and no matter what this looks like a thousand dollar trip. This is something to think over and of course see if I can get the days off.
How is everyone coming along with their plans? Who else is planning on coming?
Alicia
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Post by gillette on Oct 19, 2014 1:46:44 GMT
Hi Frenchie,
For anyone planning to attend the concert other than local residents, weather is certainly a major factor to keep in mind for December. I am sure that there in Wisconsin they have much more snow removal equipment on hand than they do in the Carolinas. But, even so, severe weather can always get the upper hand.
The concert is so tempting for Hayley fans, it is a real tough decision to make now and feel safe about.
Best of luck,
BobS
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Post by afaninchicago on Oct 19, 2014 2:31:33 GMT
I'm planning to drive up on Friday with my husband, as I normally have Fridays off, so that's better than changing my work schedule. It's only 200km from where I live so it'll be a pretty easy drive. We'll stay the night in a hotel and then head back Saturday.
As for the weather concerns, it is possible that there could be a horrid storm that would cancel flights, but believe it or not, most snow doesn't really come until January. So there will be some snow probably, but storms that would ground air travel and eliminate the possibility of getting to the concert.... I just don't see that happening. Additionally, Madison is far enough away from Lake Michigan that it wouldn't really get lake effect snow. That doesn't mean it won't be cold though! Definitely temps around freezing at that time of year. If there are any other questions I'd be happy to answer. Also, snow removal is much more efficient up north than down south. We need at least a good foot of snow before things start to shut down.
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Post by Libby on Oct 19, 2014 3:36:08 GMT
From Portland, I noticed a shocking difference in price between return flights leaving on Friday, versus Saturday. Prices change constantly, of course, but as I type this, it would cost me $415 round-trip if I catch a return flight on Friday, or $715 if I want to leave on Saturday. Both prices are out of the question for me, but I will continue to monitor flight prices. I did see a cheaper flight earlier this evening ($359, I think), but I'm not able to book anything right now. I will first have to earn the money. I've been on a very tight budget lately and have a vacation already booked for February, so extra cash is supposed to be going in that fund, lest I end up with no accommodations and no meals on that trip, just to afford this one. I'll have to find a way to earn some extra money for this concert and go from there. Regarding your concerns about flying, Libby, I can assure you it's far less stressful than you imagine. An overnight bag is all I would bring, and I can't imagine needing more than that for a couple of nights. Pack travel versions of your toiletries, wear the same shoes the whole trip (sans the concert, perhaps), and use your carry-on bag for a few outfits, concert attire, and whatever food/entertainment you want to have while traveling, which shouldn't be much. Most airlines charge for a checked bag, so I try to avoid that. I'm sure you can find hundreds of first time flyer guides online, but a quick response to your questions: Yes, you can bring non-liquid food in your carry-on bag and onto the plane, but drinks won't make it through security. However, there are always spots to purchase drinks past the security checkpoint, and those can go with you on the plane. Water is easy to find, as are snacks, fast food, etc. Knowing where to go is simple: check in at the counter of the airline you are flying with (they're all lined up when you enter the airport, with signs to direct you), collect a boarding pass, go through security, then go to your gate number (listed on your boarding pass). You'll have no trouble finding the security checkpoint, as every person flying is headed that way. Once you're at your gate, a person will tell you when to line up and get on the plane. If you have a connecting flight, you don't have to do all that again. You'll already have a boarding pass from your original check-in, and you will already be on the post-security side of the airport, so you'll just go to your next gate if there is a plane change. The employees at the counters are generally helpful to those asking basic questions like where to go; it's the people who yell at them over delays and other problems who get the rude treatment you hear about. Thanks, Cherany and Larry, this is all very helpful. I figured water wouldn't be allowed. But I'm glad to know I can buy some before you get on. What about in luggage that goes down in the hold? I'd rather not be too dependent on vending machines; I don't trust them to work efficiently. LOL And I do drink a lot of water. And I prefer no tap unless that's literally all there is.  Oh, and Cherany just brought up the perfect reason to choose Thurs. instead of Friday... the cost of the return trip! Yeah, I'd rather return on Friday instead. But I'll really just have to go by what days I can get off, if any.  It might be a bit before I can get that determined. I'm planning to ask my supervisors about it as soon as I can get a hold of them this week. |
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Post by Libby on Oct 19, 2014 3:40:49 GMT
Just purchased two tickets for Thursday night. I'm really excited. This will be great fun and I hope to meet many fellow HWI members. Libby, when you purchase your airline ticket, make sure that the name and DOB on your ticket is an exact match to what is on your Drivers License or other Government issued identification. A mismatch here can really cause problems. I've traveled quite a bit by air and, to me, the best thing you can possibly do to minimize the stress is to get to the airport early. You can then take your time and get through security with little difficulty. The first step when you arrive is to find the ticket counter for your airline, check your bag and get a boarding pass. You will need to show your Government Issued ID at the ticket counter. Keep your ID out since you will need it again (along with your boarding pass) when you begin the security screening process. The next step is to go through security. Airports are well marked so the signs will direct you to where you need to go. You won't be able to take food or water through security screening but you will be able to make those purchases once you clear security. There will be signs telling you what you need to do to go through security. You will probably have to remove your shoes and belt and put those through the scanner. There will be bins to put your stuff in so they don't get lost on the scanner conveyor. After passing security it's just a matter of finding your gate. Your boarding pass should contain info on the gate assignment but I would suggest checking the 'Departing Flight' monitors before heading to your gate since gate assignments will sometimes change. Take your time, if you make a wrong turn, it's no big deal because you have given yourself plenty of time. I really hope that you and others can find a way to come to one of the concerts. I have never heard Hayley live but I understand it is an unforgettable experience. Wait, so Cherany says I can bring food on, but you say I can't. So, which is it? I'd want to limit my cash purchases a little on this trip, if I can. |
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Post by Libby on Oct 19, 2014 3:50:58 GMT
I'm planning to drive up on Friday with my husband, as I normally have Fridays off, so that's better than changing my work schedule. It's only 200km from where I live so it'll be a pretty easy drive. We'll stay the night in a hotel and then head back Saturday. As for the weather concerns, it is possible that there could be a horrid storm that would cancel flights, but believe it or not, most snow doesn't really come until January. So there will be some snow probably, but storms that would ground air travel and eliminate the possibility of getting to the concert.... I just don't see that happening. Additionally, Madison is far enough away from Lake Michigan that it wouldn't really get lake effect snow. That doesn't mean it won't be cold though! Definitely temps around freezing at that time of year. If there are any other questions I'd be happy to answer. Also, snow removal is much more efficient up north than down south. We need at least a good foot of snow before things start to shut down. Thanks so much for that info, that is a concern of mine (and my oh-so-encouraging family). But I looked at the Farmer's Almanac website, and for the Upper Midwest this winter, they predict snow fall to be lower than normal, but I have no idea what "normal" is for up there. But your thoughts have reassured me a bit. So, as I keep saying, it really depends on whether I get the days off. If I do, then believe me, I'll be making my plans! My family always say to wait till it's closer, but Hayley hasn't been to Seattle at all for over 7 years, and that was with Celtic Woman, so who knows when she will be back?! No, I've decided I am not going to let this chance pass unless my days do not get approved. If you pray, please pray I can get my vacation days switched, and can get 3 days off in a row...!!  Only 2 can be vacation, and then they always give me extra days off because I get paid vacation. So, they might as well give me the 3rd day off, anyway. Thanks for all your encouragement, everyone, and I really hope to meet you all AND Hayley!!! |
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Post by Cherany on Oct 19, 2014 6:11:31 GMT
Wait, so Cherany says I can bring food on, but you say I can't. So, which is it? I'd want to limit my cash purchases a little on this trip, if I can. Unless restrictions have tightened since May 2013 (the last time I flew), you can bring food on, as long as it's not liquid. Things like pudding or yogurt, I would err on the side of caution and not bring, but I've always traveled with some type of food, be it a box of crackers, a sandwich, or something else. Rather than take my word, though, you can check the guidelines posted on the website of the particular airline you're flying with; they all have FAQ-type sections informing you what you can/can't do. |
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Post by Richard on Oct 19, 2014 7:38:34 GMT
Hello folks!  Hayley's concerts are now listed on the Orpheum Theater's website, with a common spelling mistake!  madisonorpheum.com/event-category/musicThe 'Buy Tickets' links should be the same as in my previous post (etix.com), but the link for the second concert is incorrect at the moment (wrong date).  Richard  |
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Post by Cherany on Oct 19, 2014 7:45:28 GMT
Also, how many people are coming or at least planning to come for both nights? So far it sounds as if everyone is planning for Thursday night. For me, I am planning for both nights since it will cost $600 for plane tickets alone. I want to get as much bang for my buck if you understand. Anyways, thanks for reading my ramblings. I have had today to let this sink in and no matter what this looks like a thousand dollar trip. This is something to think over and of course see if I can get the days off. How is everyone coming along with their plans? Who else is planning on coming? Alicia If I'm able to make it, I would prefer to see both shows, but I don't think that is likely. The extra show ticket is not the problem; it's the extra hotel night and the added cost to the flight, as Saturday returns tend to be more expensive. Most likely scenario is arriving on Wednesday and seeing the Thursday show, then flying out on Friday. Flight prices will dictate how that goes. I'm still trying to count my pennies/come up with ways to earn extra cash. Even in a miraculously cheap flight/shared room scenario, I'd still be looking at at least $600, which is quite a lot of money for me. However, I don't want to regret not going. This is my ideal concert set-up, with a live orchestra backing Hayley. I haven't stopped thinking about it since I read the news. At my wedding last year, the processional music I chose to walk down the aisle to was Hayley's Once Upon a Time In the West. It was a destination beach wedding, and that gorgeous piece of music was SO perfectly fitting! We received many compliments on the choice, most of them from people who had never heard of Hayley before. If I'm ever able to meet her, I want to tell her what a beautiful addition she was to my wedding, in addition to the happiness she brings to my everyday life with her voice. There aren't many artists I care to meet, because I don't feel I have anything unique to say to them, no matter how much I love their music. Hayley is different; I do have something special to share with her. I can't let a tiny possibility of meeting her sway me, though. Emotions cannot stretch dollars. Not to mention, I would much rather hear her sing than to gab with her about anything. The concert is my main motivation to make this happen. |
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Post by comet on Oct 19, 2014 12:58:25 GMT
Hi, After reading a little about the Orpheum Theater, if I were able to go to see Hayley, I would be wondering what my chances would be of seeing her "up close and personal" in one of her famous "meet and greet" sessions, the icing on the cake. BobS I'm quite sure Hayley would be delighted to meet you Bob....Go for it.. Seize the day |
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Post by amptique on Oct 19, 2014 14:13:01 GMT
Wait, so Cherany says I can bring food on, but you say I can't. So, which is it? I'd want to limit my cash purchases a little on this trip, if I can. Unless restrictions have tightened since May 2013 (the last time I flew), you can bring food on, as long as it's not liquid. Things like pudding or yogurt, I would err on the side of caution and not bring, but I've always traveled with some type of food, be it a box of crackers, a sandwich, or something else. Rather than take my word, though, you can check the guidelines posted on the website of the particular airline you're flying with; they all have FAQ-type sections informing you what you can/can't do. I believe Cherany is correct. I looked on the tsa.gov website (check it out) and they are more concerned about food (and other items) that are gift wrapped. They say that pies and cakes will be given extra scrutiny. You probably wouldn't have a problem with a sandwich in your carry-on. I always avoid anything that i think is going to slow me down through security. Maybe it is related to the fear of losing my pants while they have my belt.  |
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Post by comet on Oct 19, 2014 15:20:56 GMT
I always avoid anything that i think is going to slow me down through security. Maybe it is related to the fear of losing my pants while they have my belt.  oh yeah. belt and shoes in one hand, bag in the other, feet apart as you sorta waddle away from the security desk in your socks feeling a certain sensation of lightness around the hips as your trousers slide inexorably to the floor, much to the amusement of those around you and then you get arrested for indecent exposure  great to see all of you planning this wonderful adventure, it's not just a concert, for some of you I see it is an expedition of thousands of miles, the best of luck to you all. |
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It might be a bit before I can get that determined. I'm planning to ask my supervisors about it as soon as I can get a hold of them this week. 
