Sir, – Kevin Courtney’s excellent review of the Van Morrison concert (Life Culture, February 6th) neglected to mention the not-so-excellent behaviour of the audience. Not being a regular attendee at the O2, maybe I am missing something. When attending the National Concert Hall or similar venues I note a protocol is observed whereby the audience respects the artist by ensuring the minimum of disruption during the performance.
Between songs at the O2 it appears to be acceptable that herds of people parade to and from the toilets and bar, causing significant disruption for those who remain seated.
In addition, there are a number of people wandering around the auditorium selling bottles of wine and wearing backpacks complete with raised flags to indicate their presence.
And this concert was attended by what might predominantly be described as a “mature” audience! You wouldn’t get this at an international match at the Aviva.
I could go on about the use of mobile phones and video cameras and other nonsense. It is a shame that after 10 years since his last appearance in Dublin that an artist of Morrison’s stature and his band of excellent musicians were not given the good order and respect that is their due.
Perhaps a return to the Olympia is the answer for their next visit. – Yours, etc,