Take your pick

I'll be honest: I didn't know what to expect going into the show by the Shaolin Warriors on Oct. 31 at the Bedell Performance Hall.

I was just curious as to how the first touring show at the River Campus would go over.

Two hours later I lost count of how many "oohs," "ahhs" and "wows" I and those sitting next to me had uttered. And along with the rest of the audience, I gave those Buddhist monks a standing ovation.

We've discussed the hype surrounding the River Campus and its brand spanking new facilities already. There's been a lot, much of it generated by local media. That's OK, because the success of the River Campus is a promising advancement for Cape Girardeau.

But we still must remember, no matter how impressed we were by the Shaolin Warriors or the American Indian Dance Theatre (the latter of which I didn't see), that it's still early in the season. There's a long stretch to go before we know just how locals will embrace the Bedell and its fine arts offerings.

But after the first few performances, we're feeling like the New England Patriots, aren't we?

Sometimes it seems like Cape Girardeau's interest just doesn't get piqued by arts and entertainment. Sure, a lot of factors go into every decision to see a show -- novelty of the venue, love of the performer, money in the checking account. The Bedell's novelty will soon be gone, but I have to believe interest in the place will continue.

Of course, the Show Me Center's novelty is long gone. Could we be witnessing what happens when that novelty is gone now? The venue hasn't had a sell-out in the past few years.

But the Show Me Center's been around for 20 years (even older is the Arena Building, where KISS tribute band KISS Army is playing with Drivin' Rain on Saturday). That novelty would have worn off long ago. I think concerts are just too expensive today.

But let's hope price is not a factor over the next couple of weeks when Buddy Guy and Daughtry come to town. Guy, playing Sunday, is a legend in his own time, inspiration for Hendrix, Beck (as in Jeff), Clapton and others. Daughtry, performing Nov. 15, is a red-hot pop-rock band fronted by a former "American Idol" star, Chris Daughtry.

And don't forget the party that is KISS Army; tickets are just $12 in advance, $14 at the door for that one.

They're different, but each has its own appeal for different people. Cape Girardeau doesn't get these concerts every day. Let's live it up.