HLWW9 in Los Angeles

[Carmel]

Hi all
Just checking in to let you all know that many have arrived already for the convention and there is great excitement. I met up with Adrian yesterday to gather up some items to sell at the convention and he is really looking forward to seeing old friends and fans once again. Eyeborgs is going to show on Friday evening so all Adrian's fans are being well catered for.
We will be sending Sue pictures and encourage others who are attending to send posts so that others can share in the fun.

p.s. We have some AMAZING auction items....and I know that Adrian is limbering up to take on the role of Auction Master along with Peter Wingfield. This event is the highlight of the convention. You can share in it if you are interested because we are putting up 15 or so items on the web and accepting proxy bids which will allow you to participate in the live auction and perhaps even win some items. Stay posted.

[Barney]

Hi All - I thought I'd share a little about the first day of the Convention.

Friday, April 24 - It Begins!

Due to the fact that I had to finish up payroll at work Friday morning before flying off to LA for the convention, I didn't arrive until almost 1:30 in the afternoon. I knew that the opening ceremony was at 1:00 so as I made my way to the auditorium I had resigned myself to the fact that I had missed it. I finally reached the lobby area where registration was taking place but no one was at the table since they were all at the opening ceremony. Not sure what I should do, I was told by one of the very nice and helpful green-shirted ladies that suddenly appeared as if out of nowhere, to go on in and register later. Sounded good to me so I opened the door and stepped inside but I had to quickly step aside as a group of people were headed out the door. To my delight I found myself looking into the face of Mr. Adrian Paul and following him was all the other guests. My first encounter with our wonderful guests that weekend. It was pretty surreal to see these people in person. Needless to say they all looked great!

Not knowing where I was assigned to sit, I just grabbed an empty seat in the back (no bad seats in this arena) and proceeded to listen to the 1st of many guest panels. The 1st guest was Brandon Jerwa who filled us in on the comic world of Highlander. I found it interesting even though I had to admit to him later in the weekend that I have never read a comic book in my life. I have nothing against them but just haven't been inclined to. He suggested that I start with #5 so I'm passing the info on to any of you who would like to start reading the comics. They look great. He's a very talented man.

Ken Gord, a producer of the show shared some "behind the scenes" secrets but unfortunately we had heard or read about most of them, even so, he was so sweet and cute in a teddy bear way that you listened intently. He told us about Adrian's accident in "Testimony" where he fell over a railing on a staircase. Shooting was almost finished and he was driving home when he got a call that Adrian was hurt and he needed to turn around. Adrian was rushed to the hospital. We were filled in later by Adrian about what happened exactly. He was to hop over a railing which was about 7 feet to the floor but somehow caught his foot on the railing and landed head first on the floor below. Adrian said that injury pained him for a year. I had the pleasure of talking with Ken in the bar Sat night. He's rather amusing and entertaining as we all found out at the concert.

I hate to admit it but the rest of the afternoon went by in a blur for me. I remember enjoying myself and laughing often but details escape me. There was David A., F. Braun, etc, all thoroughly enjoyable. During a break, I got registered and found that I had a great seat near the front. We broke for dinner and were told to be back that evening for an exclusive showing of Adrian's new movie "Eyeborgs". I couldn't wait. There were 2 showings, one at 7:30 and one at 9:30. I wanted to make sure I made it to the 7:30 showing because Adrian, the director, and other cast members were going to be present and I wanted to hear what they had to say.

After sitting on a plane all morning and then sitting all afternoon I needed to stretch my legs. Decided on a walk to check out the neighborhood of the hotel. Seeing the time, I headed back and just as I passed the local Taco Bell, a group of high school kids came barrelling around the corner of the building and I found myself drenched with a large coke. I don't know who was more surprised, him or me. Of course now I have to get back to the hotel, up to my room, change and get down to the auditorium before 7:30. Did I mention that this all took place a 7:10? Please start late!! I don't think I ever moved so fast. Got a great seat and sat back waiting to be blown away.

I don't want to spoil the movie for those who haven't seen it yet so I'll just say it was great. Adrian was phenominal, no surprise there. It sounds like it will be a theatrical release, at least that is the plan. The movie got great reviews from everyone I talked with later that evening. Even David A. was surprised by the quality of the CG work for the budget they had. The Eyeborgs were believable. The acting was great for the most part. Adrian and the actor playing "G-Man" really stood out for me.

After the movie, I was walking past the director, Richard Clabaugh and leaned over to tell him what I thought of the movie. I told him I wasn't a big action fan but the dialogue really sold the movie for me. He promptly took me by the arm and marched me over to his wife, Fran and turned to me and said "tell her what you just said to me". I did and had a wonderful conversation with both about the movie. She of course had written the screenplay and was delighted to hear that it was what she had written that caught me. They wrote the movie with Adrian in mind and both said they couldn't imagine anyone else doing the role. We talked about filming in North Carolina and having such a small budget. I assured them they did a great job. They were delightful people and I certainly wish them all the best with the movie and any future endeavors. Our conversation lasted so long that I ended up staying and watching the next showing. I have to say, I liked it just as much the 2nd time. They said they would be taking the movie back to North Carolina for a premier there and then taking it to London for its international premier which Adrian will attend. You'll all love the movie. Hopefully you get to see it soon.

Friday finally came to an end and so far I was having a fabulous time and I couldn't wait to see what Sat. would bring. Looking at the program I saw that Adrian's Q&A was 1st on the schedule. It was so much fun, Adrian's very entertaining but that will have to wait for my next post.

[JustBecause]

Hi Barney,

Thank's for sharing! :)

[geishagirl_1]

Thank you very much Barney for sharing you r adventures, I enjoyed reading about it.

[Beatrice]

Thanks Barney!!
Your report is very interessant and I enjoyed to reat it.
I am wainting your Sat&Sun report!!!
Thank you again...
Love,
Bea.

[appeace]

Thank you so much for sharing, Barney! We cant wait for more:D

[Coolwater]

Wonderful reporting, Barney, and what fun to be able to talk to Fran Clabaugh about her script! Looking forward to the next installment!

[Barney]

Ask and you shall receive!

Sat. April 25

Saturday began bright and early. Adrian was scheduled for the 1st panel at 8:30am. He bounded in wide awake and ready to go. He entered to thunderous applause. Adrian was at ease and looked just like you'd expect, a very handsome man.

It amazes me as I sit at home that I'm unable to remember every detail even though I listened intently to every word he said. I'll try to recall some of what was said. Someone asked how he felt with his 50th birthday coming up this month. He said he knew someone would bring that up! I shouted out that its only a number to which he replied thats right and he could change it. On a serious note he talked about how actors are often judged on how old they are without ever being seen. Someone else, who was in his Chi Gung class Friday told him she hoped he was in as much pain as she was. He assured her that after 2 classes in one day, the 2nd going for over 2 hours, he was actually a little sore that morning himself. That brought a laugh from the others who sweated in his classes. Adrian also filled us in on Budino. He's doing great, healing nicely. He also spoke about how difficult its getting to be to travel with pets. We discussed Eyeborgs briefly (again, I loved the movie). He didn't stay to watch the movie Friday (he had a prior engagement that evening) so he hadn't seen the movie yet. He didn't want to see himself but said he would see it in London on Wednesday. We assured him the movie was great. Adrian was asked about being on "Dancing With the Stars". Elizabeth said if she was his agent she would have him do the show. She felt he would win hands down. But Adrian said he was afraid of being branded a "has-been" actor if he did the show. I guess that could be a legitiment concern but I don't thing so since he isn't as well know in the states as he is in Europe. I think it would make him better known. Look what its done for Mario Lopez and the French Actor Gilles doing the show this season. I know we would all love to see him dancing every week. It would be heaven but Adrian has to do what he feels is best for his career. I bet he would set a record for the most votes ever gotten by a dancer on the show!!!!

The time with Adrian went much too fast but he stayed for the next session to discuss the new Audio-CD of Highlander that we were able to purchase that weekend in the Dealers room. They sold 161 CD's that day. He was joined by Jason Haigh-Ellery of Big Finish Productions which produced the CD. It is a new story of Duncan MacLeod called "The Lesson" by Trevor Baxendale. It is about the encounter Duncan has with an immortal called Pieter Gatlan, they meet and fight every 10 years. It's wonderful to have the story of Duncan continue and Adrian justs blows me away with his vocal talent just as he did in "Dream Songs". He voices 3 other characters on the CD besides Duncan including Joe Dawson. "You look peaceful, says Joe. Thats what they call the recently departed, replied Duncan. Peaceful!" Just a little taste of the writing. The story describes the quickening he received from Connor and the description of what death is like for an immortal is very vivid and gut-wrenching. I expecially liked the sound effects. They even manage to include flashbacks through Duncan's recollections. If you haven't gotten the CD yet, I highly recommend it. Its great to hear from Duncan again. This is just the 1st of 4 that they will be releasing each month. The next is called "Love and Hate" by Colin Harvey.

The three horsemen storm the stage. It was supposed to be 4 but Marcus was injured and unable to attend. We missed him and wish him the best. Peter, Valentine and Richard or better known as Methos, Kronos and Silas joined us for a discussion of "Comes A Horseman" and Revelations 6:8. I actually got to ask a question of these charming gentlemen. I asked was there any time when their view of their characters differed from Adrian's as the director? All 3 agreed that since they had spent all day together with Adrian the sunday before filming, they all knew what he was looking for and had worked out all the issues ahead of time which made filming much easier. Even after all these years they all quickly fell into a comfortable rapport with each other. There was much laughter from them as well as us.

These gentlemen were followed by "Duncan's Women". Elizabeth and Lisa Howard (Amanda and Ann) were asked right off the bat if Adrian was a good kisser. Elizabeth seemed reluctant to say but both finally agreed that he was although Lisa said she didn't really get to kiss him that often. She also complained about being stuck in green scrubs most of the time with a bad haircut. She was envious of Amanda's wardrobe. I have to agree with her. She is much prettier in person than she was on the show. Seeing Elizabeth in person, I have to admit I perfer her as a burnett rather than a blond but that's just my opinion. She too is a very pretty lady.

The next panel was to be about "To Be" and "Not To Be" but it was more of a free for all since they talked about pretty much anything and everything. But that was ok. It was entertaining, I remember laughing often the whole weekend. There were 9 of them, Ken, David, Adrian, Peter, Valentine, Elizabeth, Don, Stan and F. Braun.

We finished up the day with Stan's Q&A. He looked good but oh how he's changed. He's 40 now and recently married. His wife was there, she's pretty and seems very nice. Looking back, he said he is so much more appreciative of the time he spent on Highlander and what a growing experience it was.

The day flew by and during the lunch break we were led to the autograph session in groups which I will go into more detail on my next post. I hope you're getting a little glimpse of what it was like to be at the convention. I know what its like to not have been able to go and wanting any bit of news that others would share. I'll also cover the Meet & Greet and the Immortal Cafe Concert which was spectacular. We were to soon learn about a hideous plot that was perpretrated on Highlander fans everywhere. More to come!!

[pukkie]

Thank you Barney for sharing this with us ! :cool::)

[L_Shell]

I am absolutely loving the reports! I can't wait to hear more...what about pictures???????

[Coolwater]

You're a peach for telling us all this, Barney. We're a little less deprived as a result!

[brilliant!MacLeod]

I am absolutely loving the reports! I can't wait to hear more...what about pictures???????

DITO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:D

[Barney]

Hi All - I'm back for my next installment!

Autograph Session - Sat 4/25

On Saturday we were able to get autographs from most of the guests during the lunch break. We were split into 3 groups according to our registration numbers and that put me in the 2nd group. So it was either autographs or lunch, of course I picked autographs! I have to admit that I have never gotten anyone's autograph before and I can't really say that I cared if I got any, I don't see the point but it was a great opportunity to speak to each guest one on one even if for only a few seconds. So I grabbed my program, in which they had very thoughtfully included an autograph page. They think of everything!:) We were led downstairs to a room just off the lobby and were told to get into lines in front of the guests who were seated at tables. Once you had their autograph you were to move to the next line. I made for the shortest line and found that if I just jumped to the next shortest line I was able to get a signature from each guest. I managed to get F. Braun, Stan, Valentine, Richard, Ken, David A., Elizabeth and Adrian's. It amazed me that Elizabeth was able to look up into my face and know that I had never been to a convention before. I told her I was impressed by her ability to know who had been before or not. She gave me a big welcome and hoped that I would be back. My final signature was Adrian's. I had him sign the book I had read on the plane. It's called "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho. I told Adrian it reminded me of what he always speaks about, the importance of listening to our hearts and the power of our dreams and being willing to step out of our comfort zone to follow our dreams. Carmel kept reminding the guests to stop spending so much time talking and more time signing to which Peter and Adrian said they'd talk as long as they liked! These two are trouble when they get together but very entertaining as we were to see during the auction on Sunday. The whole experience of autograph seeking was a little hectic but well worth enduring to be able to speak with each guest.

Guest Meet & Greet

The meet & greet was held in the same room as the autograph session so I
actually knew where I was going for a change:D We all milled around chatting with each other until the guests arrived. That's the wonderful thing about Highlander fans, they are so easy to talk with even if you didn't know anyone before. The guests arrived and separated and quickly hooked up with different groups. It soon became apparent that if you wanted to talk with a specific guest or with more than one, you were going to have to move yourself to that group and just sort of work your way into the conversation. I'm certainly not shy so I was more than willing to do this. Carmel was trying to get the guests moving so everyone would have a chance to converse with them. I had just gotten to Adrian's goup when Carmel grabbed him and was leading him off to a new group and I said, "but I just got here" to which she replied, "follow me". She didn't have to ask me twice! I followed along and was able to thank Adrian for his work with his children's charity and that I admired people who gave their all to projects like Peace.

The woman standing next to me said something to Adrian that I didn't catch but it had to be something about his age because he asked if she had made the comment that age was just a number and I said no that was me and that I believed that we are only as old as we want to be. That is was all in our attitudes. Besides I said, you certainly don't look your age. Much too soon Carmel was whisking him away again.

I enjoyed meeting Stan. I walked up to him and right away he greets me and shakes my hand. We talked about his wanting to move into doing more directing. He says that is where his interest lies right now. I wished him luck. I also got to compliment Valentine on his performance in "Under the Tuscan Sun" one of my favorite movies. He was able to convey so much even though his character only spoke one word, "Poland". He spoke volumes with his eyes. So different from his Kronos character! I spent the rest of our time listening to the other guests but didn't have time to see everyone. There were some people who tended to monopolize certain guests which is too bad because I know some people didn't get to talk with many guests and were disappointed. Finally 6:15 came and the guests were all herded out for dinner and rehearsal time for the concert that evening.

I decided I would take advantage of the break to check out the silent auction items. I put in a bid and enjoyed looking at the pictures they had of Adrian. There was a group of pictures of Adrian and Alexandra which were very nice and a set of photos of a very young Adrian. i have to tell you an amusing story about the auction, at least it was amusing to me. I had my eye on a set of black & white photos of Adrian (I love B&W photos) so I put a bid down and while I was doing that the lady seated behind the table commented that nobody had placed a bid on the photo next to the ones I wanted. Well we can't have that I said and proceeded to sign my name. I didn't even look at the picture, it was covered with the bid sheet. All I saw was a picture of Adrian from the neck up wearing a baseball cap and sunglasses looking very serious. I was getting hungry since I had missed lunch so thought no more about the auction and went out in search of food. Ran into a group of ladies headed for dinner too and being such nice people they invited me to go along even though they didn't know me, nor I them. See what I mean about Highlander fans being extremely nice:)

Waiting in the lounge for the concert to start with some new friends I had made the night before, I suddenly remembered the auction and that they wanted people who had won something to check in before the concert to pay and pick up their items. I excused myself and ran upstairs, (ok I didn't run I used the escalator), to see if I had gotten my B&W photos. To my surprise I had and was told that I had gotten the other picture as well. I wasn't sure what she was talking about at 1st because I had forgotten about the other picture. I paid for both and then finally looked at the picture I had won. Imagine my surprise when I saw that it was actually a picture of Adrian on the beach playing volleyball (that explains the serious expression, he does take his sports seriously) wearing a skimpy swimsuit. I had to chuckle because we had just been talking about how good looking Adrian was. One of the ladies had admitted she had such a crush on Adrian. I just knew I had to show her this photo. So I nonchalantly returned to the lounge and said I had won a picture of Adrian and of course they wanted to see it. The look on her face was great. She took the picture to look at it more closely and then handed it back only to ask to see it again one more time. That left me and the other lady laughing so hard;) I explained how I had come to own this picture and they couldn't believe that I hadn't known what the photo was of. I was just very happy that I had gotten the B&W photos that I had wanted. I sat back and enjoyed a nice visit and waited for the concert to start. It wasn't long but you will have to wait just a little longer for that report!

[L_Shell]

Sounds like you had a great time and met some new friends. Keep the reports coming...I'm loving it!!

Scan the Pic and post it so we all can see! :)

[pukkie]

Great Barney !!:cool::);)

[brilliant!MacLeod]

Barney, it feels as if we had been there as well thanks to your wonderful and amusing report:D:)
Thank you again!!!!

[Coolwater]

And we'd like to see the B&W photos, too!

[appeace]

Wonderful reports, Barney! Thank you so much for sharing:D

[L_Shell]

And we'd like to see the B&W photos, too!

Oh yeah...I almost forgot about them.:D

[Littledevil]

Wow Barney, that was great.

[Barney]

I'm so glad you are all appreciating the reports. Like I said earlier, I know what it's like waiting for info on the latest convention. So I shall continue with The Concert.

This concert was very entertaining. It was great to see each of the guests do their upmost to give us a wonderful concert. Adrian was the emcee for the evening and did a great job and was very funny. He was wearing a black shirt that had what looked like Chinese or Japanese characters running down one sleeve and a beautiful design on the back. He looked great! David had asked Adrian earlier in the day if he would do another mime routine and Adrian talked about the airport mime he had done in Leeds, I believe. I was really hoping he would because alot of us have never seen it and I had heard it was really good. Alas, it was not to be.

I can't remember in what order they performed but I will try to let you know what we saw and heard that night. David sang "Hava Nagila" and he had the audience clapping and singing along. F Braun did a comedy routine that even I chuckled over and trust me I'm a hard sell. Lisa Howard read a poem she wrote about "Ann" that was amusing and rather good. Richard sang and then was joined by his 15 year old daughter who writes her own music and lyrics. She also entertained us sunday evening in the lounge. Richard is a very proud dad:) Ken Gord came to the stage to give us a public service announcement. It concerned a hideous plot that was perpretrated by David Abramowitz. It became known as TACI, The Abramowitz Code Initiative. (I believe that is what the letters stood for). It was no coincidence that immortal names began with a K or K sound and then he proceeded to name them. Who knew Ken was so funny. I certainly hope they will have that on a DVD. I asked him later in the lounge how long it took for him to do the research for the routine, amazingly he was able to do it in an hour. He said he got the idea from a actual memo he wrote after season 3. I wish I could give this routine justice because it was just too funny.

Elizabeth sang a song for Duncan but for the life of me I can't remember what it was. Damn its tough getting older!:( It ended with "Duncan" sweeping her off her feet and heading off the stage. Stan read his story that he wrote for the book "An Evening At Joe's" called "From the Grave". It was letters "Ritchie" wrote from heaven to those he left behind when he died. It was especially touching when he read the letter he wrote to "Mac". Adrian had never read it nor had he heard it before so he came up on stage and stood with his arms crossed expecting the worst but as Stan started to read you could see that Adrian was moved by what Stan, through "Ritchie" had to say. The two ended up hugging before Stan left the stage. Everyone was very touched when he read "you were the brother and the father I never had". It was definately an "aww" moment.

Peter sang and played the guitar that he said he was still learning to play. He did himself proud. I think he just needs a little more confidence in himself. I give him a high five for doing something out of his comfort zone. Valentine, what can I say, I was completely blown away by his performance of a piece from the play he starred in about John Lennon. When he put on those glasses, he became John Lennon. I would love to see the whole performance and said so after the show. He told me that he had met a fellow that is trying to get a run of the play presented in London. I told him to make sure to keep us informed because it would be worth a trip to London (not that I need a reason to go to London:D) He assured me he would.

James Horan sang "Walking in Memphis" and "Man from La Mancha". He did a fabulous job. Donna and Gillian showed us what was accomplished in the writers workshop they had given on Friday with a little help from some friends and some rather "scary" dolls. Each of the characters was represented by one of the dolls. There were definately some very amusing moments, especially when a head went flying in an inpromptu beheading. Richard and his daughter finished the show with a duet of "In the Arms of an Angel" (I thing that was the name). The audience sang along. The concert was fabulous. I loved every minute of it. I so appreciated each and every performance because they all gave it everything they had to put on a great concert for us all and they succeeded! Sunday coming up shortly so please stand by;)

[Coolwater]

AP hasn't read An Evening At Joe's? Some of those stories are very very good.

Thanks again, Barney. The folks over on the HLbb have been posting photos, and your account explains them nicely!

[Sam]

:D Thank You Barney. It is so great when those who get to go to a con come back and share with us.
It gives us an insight to what goes on there and makes this girl want to go even more than ever.

[L_Shell]

Barney, you are rocking these reports!! It's as if we are right there with you. Thank you so much for sharing and Cool is right, the pictures are making a lot more sense with the stories you are providing.

[brilliant!MacLeod]

Thank you ,Barney,that was great again!!:D

[pukkie]

Thanks Barney ,for share this all with us !:)

[Amarnagrape]

Barney, your reports are awesome! I had pretty much the same experience you did. How come we didn't get to meet???:confused:

[renate]

sounds like everyone had a blast right??
Renate :)

[Barney]

I know I did!:D Here's my Sunday report

You will have to forgive me, as time is passing, my memory is fading when it comes to details. I guess I'll have to buy the DVD's to refresh my memory. The first session was with Richard Ridings. Poor Richard, I felt sorry for him. He had closed the bar the night before and who knows what time he got to bed. He does like to mingle with the fans. He's just such a fun guy, very genuine. I forgot to mention in my last post, that when I ran up to check on the auction, I had to try to get past Richard. He was bending over and leaning on the arms of a chair talking to someone but his tush was in my way. So I took my wallet that I was carrying and smacked him on the butt and said, "move it toots". He turned around and gave me a scowl before bursting into that deep laugh of his and smiled. "Pardon me" he said. On the way back, I passed him again and I leaned over and said, "you're not going to sue me for sexual harassment are you?". He laughed again and said I could pat his butt anytime.

John Mosby was getting a workout all weekend running around passing the mic to people asking questions. On this particular morning, a fellow sitting in front of me raised his hand to ask a question and John of course came running but what he wasn't aware of was that Richard ran off the stage at the same time and was sitting in the empty seat next to the guy asking the question before John got there. The look on John's face was priceless. Talk about surprised. Richard just said he was faster. When he got back on stage he said please don't expect him to do that again. He was much too tired. He thought it was a very cruel joke on Carmel's part to schedule him at 8:30 am.

He talked about getting injured while shooting "Revelations" at the submarine silos. He said there were signs posted warning that some of the flooring was hazardous as he was told later but he protested because the signs were in French and he doesn't read French. It wasn't his fault what happened. He was just walking along when his leg suddenly went through the floor. He said he nearly broke his leg and that it hurt like hell. He ended up bloody and missing most of the skin on his shin. He also said he felt sorry for his horse because of his size but at least he could control his horse unlike Marcus who's horse kept turning around while the rest were faced forward. I remember Valentine said that Marcus' horse backed up everwhere. He said it was very funny. I'm afraid that is all I can remember. I too had gotten to bed late, it was 3am as I recall. Morning came much, much too soon. I do remember that Richard had us all laughing. He's a very funny guy with a very big heart. I'm really glad I got to meet him.

Valentine Pelka was up next on stage. I would have to describe him as a gentleman, rather soft spoken but with a wicked sense of humor. He loved doing Highlander. He was a little concerned at first coming into an established show but everyone made him feel so welcome. I really hope I get to see him perform John Lennon. Just the short bit we saw during the concert was fantastic.

I'm sorry but this is another session I remember very little about. The session consisted of David, Peter and Elizabeth talking about the "Reunion Shoot". David said he didn't think it worked because Duncan wasn't included. I didn't see this so I didn't really know what they were talking about. Elizabeth did tell us a very funny story about the strippers pole. The house they used for filming belonged to Peter Davis, a very beautiful home. There was a pole in a room that was covered in mirrors. She decided to try out the pole spinning around and around not realizing that you can't spin repeatedly in the same direction. The pole was wedged between a beam and the floor and as she kept spinning the pole was moving closer and closer to the edge. You guessed it, there was suddenly a loud crash which everyone downstairs heard. I believe she also said she broke a mirror. She was mortified but had us roaring with laughter over this story. A real "Amanda" move don't you think.

I'm not even going to try to remember Peter's Q&A. There is just nothing in my brain. And yes, I was there. I didn't miss any of the panels. But for some reason I just can't bring to mind a single thing he said. So bizarre! Oh, oh! I do remember something he talked about, his stint on "24". About how great it was working with Keifer Sutherland and how dedicated he was to making "24" a good show. I had asked Peter the day before if he thought his character "Emerson" was really dead or could they potentially bring him back. He told us during the panel what he had told me, that he felt his character was really dead becuase they hadn't sent him any further scripts. But as I had told him earlier, he could still come back, they brought "Tony" back from the dead. So you never know!

The next panel I was really looking forward to was with Adrian and Stan but the auction had run over and the time there was left was way too short. They seemed unsure of each other at first and Stan had mentioned that it had been at least a year and a half since they had seen each other, mainly because Adrian spends so much of his time in Europe. They were just getting into their groove when John wrapped it up. It's such a shame. I would loved to see them interact together more.

War of the Worlds, this panel was with David, Adrian, Peter, Elizabeth and Joe Pearson (the director I believe). We saw a trailer which showed a split screen of the animated character and the actor voicing the character. There was quite an uproar from us all when they showed a clip of Peter and Elizabeth's characters getting hot and heavy on screen with Elizabeth's character ripping open her shirt and exposing two very large breasts. Now that had to be an interesting session to record. They actually did that session together. Not usually done. So Peter and Elizabeth are the young lovers and Adrian is the big strapping Irish warrior. I believe they said this would be released in Feb. 2010. Something else to look forward to:).

My last post will be the Auction. Absolutely everything I've ever read or heard about the auction is true. They are so entertaining and just plain crazy. Be back soon!

[Coolwater]

I don't know whether I'm grinning more because Gracen broke Davis's stripper pole, or because Davis has one!

[Sam]

;) Barney YOU ROCK!! I got a big laugh out of your encounter with Richard Ridings. I hope they do bring PW's character back on 24.
And I wasn't that into the WOW thing but now I'm thinking it might be something very interesting.

[L_Shell]

Thanks Barney! I am sooo looking forward to hearing your take on the auction!!

[Coolwater]

Careful, Sam: among the Highlander cognoscenti WOW refers to Woman of the Week, which started after Tessa died, and the writers seemed to be giving Duncan a new bed partner each ep.

(eyes closed, frown, hand to forehead) Wait... I see... I see vast... no minor, Yes! I foresee minor confusion!

Nostradamus foresaw it, too, no doubt. :rolleyes:

[Tessa]

I wish someone could remember the name of the song that Lizzie sang as Amanda, to Duncan at the HLWW 9 concert but for some reason no one seems to recall the name of that song! What is WRONG with you guys!!!??? ;) I would love to know it. I truly enjoyed her rendition of The Eagles *Desperado* which she sang on that same stage in 2004 at the Walkabout, again, as Amanda to Duncan. So if anyone who was there can manage to remember, please post it and put me out of my misery??? Thanks!

[L_Shell]

I wasn't there, but if you know some of the words, maybe I can help out...

[Tessa]

If I knew some of the words LShell, I would probably know what the song was because I'm pretty good with lyrics. ;) I have seen several posts about the song on a few boards, but they always say they have forgotten what it was called and never mention any of the words. Thanks for your help anyway. :)

[L_Shell]

Oh well, I was just trying to help...I hope it comes to you....

[Tessa]

Oh well, I was just trying to help...I hope it comes to you....

Thanks LShell. I appreciate your trying to help. :) I haven't got a clue about the song as no one has ever even mentioned a single word of it other than that it was a jazzy number on one post I read. So hopefully it comes to someone who heard her sing it. :) Perhaps it wasn't a well known song which might explain why no one seems to be able to recall it.

[Coolwater]

Sue Viney or John Mosby might know. You could ask.

[Tessa]

Thanks Coolwater. I asked on HLWW MB so Carmel or JM might see my post and answer my question. :)

[Tessa]

I've just been given a response on HLWW and as I suspected, it is an obscure bluesy song that apparently no one caught the name of but from all accounts, Lizzie was in great voice. I was quite surprised at what a nice voice she had when she sang at the concert I saw in 2004 as I really had no idea at that time that she sang, although I understand that she sang in the talent competition part of the Miss America pageant which she won back in 1982.

[Littledevil]

Sounds like a great everning. Hey I would have loved to switch places with Elizabeth, hey our names are the same at least, and be swepted off my feet. Haven't had that in years. Most men forget that women still love that even when we get older and have been married for a few years!!!

One of my boyfriends when I was much younger actually did sweep me off my feet. It was cool the way he picked me up so effortlessly and carried me around. Yes I was a bean pole as a teenager but I was about 125lbs when this occured and he wasn't a really big guy either.

[Victoria]

Ask and you shall receive :) I asked Carmel about the song Elizabeth Gracen sang at the Convention. This is the answer.

CARMEL:
It was a Corinne Bailey Rae song called 'Just Like a Star.' I asked Elizabeth and she confirmed and said “It is such a pretty song. I hope I did it justice. I thought it was a good one for an Amanda/Duncan moment.”


Just like a star across my sky,
Just like an angel off the page,
You have appeared to my life,
Feel like I'll never be the same,
Just like a song in my heart,
Just like oil on my hands,
Honour to love you

Still I wonder why it is,
I don't argue like this,
With anyone but you,
We do it all the time,
Blowing out my mind,

You've got this look I can't describe,
You make me feel like I'm alive,
When everything else is au fait,
Without a doubt you're on my side,
Heaven has been away too long,
Can't find the words to write this song,
Oh...
Your love,

Still I wonder why it is,
I don't argue like this,
With anyone but you,
We do it all the time,
Blowing out my mind,

Now I have come to understand,
The way it is,
It's not a secret anymore,
'cause we've been through that before,
From tonight I know that you're the only one,
I've been confused and in the dark,
Now I understand,

I wonder why it is,
I don't argue like this,
With anyone but you,
I wonder why it is,
I wont let my guard down,
For anyone but you
We do it all the time,
Blowing out my mind,

Just like a star across my sky,
Just like an angel off the page,
You have appeared to my life,
Feel like I'll never be the same,
Just like a song in my heart,
Just like oil on my hands

I did a search on YouTube and the following while not Lizzie’s standard at least gives the tune:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0vDF1i2jKOY&feature=related

Thank you Carmel

Well from what l have heard about the Convention and Concert it sounds like Elizabeth more than did it justice. Loving the reports, keep posting them everyone.

[brilliant!MacLeod]

Thank you,Carmel and Victoria,that was great and I´m sure Lizzy did a wonderful job-so sad I missed it!:(
I DO hope it´s on the dvd ´s of the con!?:D

[L_Shell]

Ask and you shall receive :) I asked Carmel about the song Elizabeth Gracen sang at the Convention. This is the answer.

CARMEL:
It was a Corinne Bailey Rae song called 'Just Like a Star.' I asked Elizabeth and she confirmed and said “It is such a pretty song. I hope I did it justice. I thought it was a good one for an Amanda/Duncan moment.”


Just like a star across my sky,
Just like an angel off the page,
You have appeared to my life,
Feel like I'll never be the same,
Just like a song in my heart,
Just like oil on my hands,
Honour to love you

Still I wonder why it is,
I don't argue like this,
With anyone but you,
We do it all the time,
Blowing out my mind,

You've got this look I can't describe,
You make me feel like I'm alive,
When everything else is au fait,
Without a doubt you're on my side,
Heaven has been away too long,
Can't find the words to write this song,
Oh...
Your love,

Still I wonder why it is,
I don't argue like this,
With anyone but you,
We do it all the time,
Blowing out my mind,

Now I have come to understand,
The way it is,
It's not a secret anymore,
'cause we've been through that before,
From tonight I know that you're the only one,
I've been confused and in the dark,
Now I understand,

I wonder why it is,
I don't argue like this,
With anyone but you,
I wonder why it is,
I wont let my guard down,
For anyone but you
We do it all the time,
Blowing out my mind,

Just like a star across my sky,
Just like an angel off the page,
You have appeared to my life,
Feel like I'll never be the same,
Just like a song in my heart,
Just like oil on my hands

I did a search on YouTube and the following while not Lizzie’s standard at least gives the tune:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0vDF1i2jKOY&feature=related

Thank you Carmel

Well from what l have heard about the Convention and Concert it sounds like Elizabeth more than did it justice. Loving the reports, keep posting them everyone.

This is going to make Tessa very Happy!!! Thanks guys!!!!!

[Tessa]

Thanks so much Carmel and Victoria! As it happens, I'm a big fan of Corinne Bailey Rae and I ADORE that song, it's one of my favourite songs that she does and I listen to that CD often. It is a perfect song for Duncan and Amanda! The lyrics really do work for them. I am certain that Lizzie sang it beautifully and that Adrian was very impressed!

[L_Shell]

I love that song!!!! You're right Tessa, it definitely fits Amanda and Duncan!

[Littledevil]

Never heard it before, but the lyrics alone fit Duncan and Amanda characters perfectly.

[Barney]

Hi Everyone! This will be my last report unless I remember something I think you would find interesting.

The Auction

The auction was so much fun. Adrian and Peter are such a winning duo. They play off each other so well. You can see that they geniunely like each other and are very comfortable giving each other a hard time. They were cracking us up continually, especially with Peter's broad use of innuendo. That's how he got himself in trouble when he was auctioning off the leather pants he was wearing. When it came time to auction the pants, he looked down at them and stated that he didn't want to give them up. He liked them and started to strut his stuff, raising first one leg and then the other. So goofy! The bidding took off and was getting higher when someone asked him if he would take them off on stage for a price. To which he responded by reaching into his pants to check if he was wearing shorts before answering. He made some comment I missed due to the laughter which Adrian reacted to by pantomiming digging a hole. He said Peter had better quit while he was behind but his mouth kept getting himself deeper and deeper in trouble. The time finally came for him to drop his pants but he was definately postponing the event. You could just see his mind working overtime trying to figure out how he was going to get out of this one. That's how he ended up on the table. He first "stripped" off his boots and then jumped up on the table strutting about. He finally jumped back down and had the lady who won get up and they danced, to her delight, while he crooned to her "In the Arms of an Angel". That was so much better she said and Peter was very relieved that she had let him off the hook. By the look on her face she was definately a very happy lady. She was so thrilled she donated an extra $500.00 to PEACE. Which in turn thrilled Adrian and Peter. They thanked her profusely.

Everytime the bids started getting higher Adrian would break into dance. I don't think he can help himself. After watching him all weekend, I think standing still is difficult for him. I have a niece that has the same condition, she too was a dancer. Moving is just his natural state. But that's ok I love to see him dance:).

When it came time to auction off a Highlander jacket, Peter right away put it on to model it but soon took it off and put it on backwards showing that it could be worn either way. Of course Adrian had to get involved so he walked up behind Peter and while Peter was talking he started snapping the jacket closed which basically made the coat into a straight-jacket on Peter because it was a little too small for him. He finally started struggling to get out of the jacket claiming claustrophobia.

Just as they began selling a 4 Horsemen t-shirt, someone asked what size it was and Richard came running down the aisle to help out by putting on the shirt and modelling it for us. He broke into song, singing "On the Good Ship Lollipop" So funny! It worked, the bid was soon up over $1,000. What finally put it up to $1700 was Adrian agreeing to do an impromptu Kata. Which I loved:D. It was fantastic to see him in action in living color!

I remember Peter holding up a framed coin that was from the late 1700's. He was sure that it must have belonged to "Methos". It didn't take long for it to sell. Actually almost everything went fairly quickly. Adrian was very good at keeping things moving along. He seemed able to tell when something was at its peak and wasn't going to go any higher. Another item I remember was a picture of Peter as "Methos". He was getting into his spiel when Adrian suddenly put the picture in front of Peter's face. Peter didn't miss a beat, he kept right on talking completely ignoring Adrian. The same thing happened as Peter was holding up a large poster of "War of the Worlds". Adrian suddenly slid along the floor in front of the poster and posed prettily for pictures. What a ham!!! Too cute.

Ken Gord joined Adrian on stage to auction off his very funny script on
"TACI" from saturday nights concert. I would loved to have had that myself. I also remember Adrian putting on a black Highlander coat and doing his model walk up and down the aisle. He hasn't lost his touch, once a model always a model? Peter and Adrian each auctioned off a postcard that they would write on and send to the winners. Peter insisted that he had to go to Bora Bora in order to get it posted in the place on the front of his postcard. I don't think Carmel was willing to go along with his plan.

It came time to sell the Katana sword. Adrian picked it up and Peter slowly backed away moving as far from Adrian as he could. Adrian assured him and the rest of us that he wasn't going to do anything with the sword, making a reference to the incident that occurred at the HLWW8 convention. The sword sold quickly without any blood spilled. I wish I could remember more but this is all that is clear in my mind. Everything else is a blur. Sensory over-load I guess. I just remember laughing often and being thoroughly entertained by the fabulous duo of Adrian and Peter. These two just have such great chemistry together, they're both quick-witted and play off each other so well. If you ever get a chance to see them in person, you've got to do it.

This was the first time I've attended a Highlander convention and I debated on whether I would go to this one. I finally decided that there really wasn't any reason why I couldn't go so I committed myself and now having gone, I have absolutely no regrets. The convention was well organized, the guests were very committed to making it a great time for everyone and the other attendees were, as I've reported in my posts, very, very, friendly. I knew no one before I went and made some great friends that weekend that I am still in contact with. I would highly recommend that if you have never gone to a convention but have thought about going, that you start saving for the next one. You won't be disappointed!!!;)

[appeace]

Oh Barney! Sounds like a dream come true:D Thank you so much for taking the time and energy to share your precious memories with us! For those of us who are unable to attend a con, you are a life saver!;)

[Coolwater]

Good telling, Barney, thanks!

[Sam]

:D Thank You Barney! It sure helps having the story to go with all the wonderful pics out there! It allows those of us who could not attend to share in the fun. We GREATLY appreciate it!!

[brilliant!MacLeod]

Barney, that was such a great report!!!!!!!!!!!:D

Thank you so much!!!

[pukkie]

Thank you very much Barney !!
For share this all with us !! :)