This writer presented to the Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville, Indiana, to photograph New Kids On The Block. This writer has never been to Ruoff, and the experience was different from most venues. Ruoff has several parking locations surrounding the venue. These parking locations are differentiated by gates. It did present slightly confusing trying to navigate a specific location to enter into for parking. As this writer found the correct gate, parking presented very easy. The interaction between this writer and the workers, not only who were helping navigate parking, but who were working throughout the night displayed an overwhelming kindness towards all of the fans who were in attendance.
First to take the stage was DJ Jazzy Jeff. He acted as the hype man for the night and rallied up the fans for the rest of the show to come! DJ Jazzy Jeff is known as only half of the DJ Jazzy Jeff & Fresh Prince Duo. Jeff worked alongside Will Smith.
Next to take the stage was Grammy award winning pop singer, Paula Abdul. Paula took the stage in style presenting with her back up dancers carrying her on what seemed to be a table. After the first two songs Paula took a break to introduce her daughter to the stage. Her daughter presented with an oxygen tank, and Paula began to utilize it. Paula looked at the crowd and stated, “this is my daughter people say she looks like me. What do you think?” Paula then jokingly stated, “Do you guys think I’m kidding? This is what 60 does to you.” In regards to her oxygen implying it’s not an act. Paula continued to Hype up the crowd and continued her portion of the show.
As the stage was set for New Kids On The Block to take the spotlight, fans grabbed their last minute snacks and drinks. As fans scurried around Ruoff Music center and located their seats, fans were also selected low key to stand on stage behind a barrier that was decorated in tour theme type décor for the first half of the show. The screen behind the stage flashed with nostalgic images of New Kids On The Block, and would fade out. The lights began to flicker and the audience screamed. Flashes of showdown figures presented and New Kids On The Block Appeared! The crowd went wild. Confetti cannons filled the air.
NKOTB began to sing their first three songs as this writer photographed the set. This writer left the stage area for a short period of time, and presented back as NKOTB was singing their hit song “Summertime.” NKOTB interacted with fans as much as possible inviting their fans to the stage throwing items such as their sunglasses into the crowd, and even inviting fans on stage to sing happy birthday to them! As Donnie Wahlberg, founding member of New Kids On The Block, displayed luscious dance moves and dancing with other band members, he asked the crowd, “can we get closer?” Donnie again repeated the question! Fans went wild, and each member of NKOTB went into the crowd to perform their hit song “Block Party.” Working their way through the crowd up to the lawn section fans went wild trying to find where they went looking every which way.
As they made their way back to the stage, they stated “it’s time for an outfit change.” NKOTB exited the stage and displayed themselves on the TV screen they first appeared on. A crowd pleaser, some would say, as NKOTB appeared taking their shirts off and dancing. Joey McIntyre presented at the top of a flight of stairs sitting behind a piano. Joey began singing and playing the piano. Joey shortly stopped and stated, “I did this 46 times I thought am I ever gonna mess up! And I waited until the last show! But there are no mistakes right?!” Joey yelled through the mic. Joey proceeded to hold out his microphone and say, “do you hear that?! That’s a bug I been listening to this the whole time! It’s about this big!” Joey gestured a measurement with his hand. “Shush!” Joey yelled at the big. “Shall I continue?!” Joey asked the audience. The crowd screamed. “My manager said there is a hard curfew. Oh well!” Joey proceeded to play the piano. “You’re the greatest fans in the world,” Joey sang.
As the set proceeded with multiple more songs such as the iconic "Step By Step," "I’ll Be Loving You," and more, the end of the show was upon the NKOTB fans. Not only the end of the show, but also the end of the tour. NKOTB took time to thank their stage crew, openers, and many more people including all of the fans. They proceeded to keep Paula Abdual and DJ Jazzy Jeff on stage during their next song. The boys began to perform and had a dance party.
This writer exited the venue, a few songs early, and made it to the car right at the last song. The night was unforgettable and very nostalgic. If you have the opportunity to experience a New Kids On The Block Show, it is like taking a trip back in time! You do not want to miss out seeing these guy’s perform!
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