Sunny Day with a Rainbow in St. Louis
By Catherine A. Carr
HLN Today Reporter
3 April 2005, St. Louis, MO: The event began with the music of Black Eyed Peas' "Let's Get It Started" on a video screen showing scenes of St. Louis. Since Dick Vitale couldn't be at the event in person, his video image introduced Bob Costas. This is the 17th year for the Bob Costas Benefit for SSM Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital.
A special appearance was made by actor Bill Murray. He described the event as a "sunny day with a rainbow". Comedian George "I be thinkin'" Wallace entertained the audience with his perspectives on current events. By the time he was done the audience gave him a standing ovation.
After the 20 minute intermission, thank you's to the supporters of the benefit were displayed on the video screen. Cheers were heard throughout the theatre as the different names were recognized. Bob Costas' voice was heard from the stage, due to a spotlight delay. The curtain opened, revealing the News dressed in business casual attire. Before introducing Huey, Bob explained how he was able to sway the band to perform at the benefit: Golf and The Final Four.
"We're Not Here For A Long Time, But We're Here For A Good Time" began to play and Huey walked onto the stage. Preceding "The Heart of Rock and Roll", Huey pointed out that Bob picked the songs, so the crowd wouldn't be hearing any new stuff and to 'loosen your cumberbuns, let's rock!'
"Doing It All For My Baby" was next followed by "Power of Love". During this song a few members of the audience made their way onto the stage to dance, with a little help from Bill Murray who was in the front row, Stage Right. After the song, in a joking manner, Huey asked "How much money could be donated to dance on stage? Check with Bob and make arrangements". The crowd cheered.
The next song played was "If This Is It". (Too) Hip To Be Square" was dedicated to all the hippies in attendance. Huey announced this is favorite part of the show: the applause. He introduced the members of the band as the microphones were being set up. The audience was invited to participate in the next song. "It's Alright" was sung a cappella. Huey would ask throughout the night "Are you still with me?", each time receiving a response from the participants.
The band played "Heart and Soul", "But It's Alright" and "I Want A New Drug" to a standing crowd of gentlemen in suits and ladies wearing evening dresses. The encore consisted of "Back In Time" and "Do You Believe In Love" finishing with "Workin' For A Livin'". The band waved and cheered as they exited the stage. Bob Costas returned to thank everyone who attended. He also thanked Bill Murray, George Wallace and Huey Lewis and the News once again.
