The making of a great show

John Papa Gros - The making of a great show… Well, for me, I like to set the stage. I like showing up putting the piano where it goes, plugging in the cables, making sure everything works. Setting the stage properly is kind of like setting the table for Thanksgiving dinner, you know? I want to make sure everything is in its place, so when the food hits the table, the expectation meets the anticipation. We have to sound great.

Then, I try to find a quiet moment somewhere to remind myself why I’m there and what I’m there to do. I pray there’s an audience in front of us. I’ve spent many hours on Bourbon Street playing to the rats and the cockroaches. So I understand and appreciate what it means to have an audience. The pandemic has reinforced that. I love to play for people, especially when they’re receptive. It’s my job to give you my all and encourage you to give it right back, whether it’s dancing, smiling, butt-shaking, singing, whatever …  Anyway that lets me know you’re getting it. When the communication goes back and forth from stage to audience the energy begins to build and the rest doesn’t matter. The rest is gravy.