Touring with a band. It’s a dream that many kids have, but are never able fulfill. But Natalie Goik’s dream is coming true this week as she sets off across the US on her first big production tour with Barenaked Ladies. Nat will be reporting in to me as often as she can about life on the road and all of her “firsts.” I’m looking forward to going on tour with her and I hope you come back often to see what she’s been up to.
I asked Nat to give me a little info about herself and how she got this gig.
“I’ve been a techie for the past 6 or 7 years now. It all started back in high school when I found out that you could join the sound and lighting crew, and every time there was an event or an assembly, you were allowed get out of class early to go set up. Ever since then I’ve been working gigs around Ontario.
I’ve worked 4am load ins and 40 hour weekends (not including Friday), I’ve driven to cities hours away, only to work 4 hour calls, I’ve worked 13 hours and then had to drive home 2, 3 hours, and I’ve done more than my share of volunteering. Hell, I’ve even toured with a Magician. But I can’t say I’ve regretted anything so far. I’ve made friends, contacts, and injured myself many many times.
For years now I’ve been trying so hard to get on a big production tour. I’ve had interviews and sent out resumes, and never gotten any response – until a few months back. I remember it very clearly. I was in my house, walking down the stairs when my phone made it’s “you’ve got mail” ding. I stopped, picked up my phone, and opened my mail box.
from: Deb H.
subject: Tour
Now, Deb has been my guardian angel for this past year. She always puts my name in and always calls me up when she needs an extra crewman. So, I open this email, and read:
Hey Nat,
Are you free from July 5th-Aug 15th to come out on tour with the Barenaked Ladies?
Let me know
Deb
I froze. Mouth dropped. Totally speechless. This was it, the big break I’ve been waiting for. Holy-shit. I’m going on tour.”
First Stop: Starlight Theater, Kansas City, MO
