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I thought I'd take a short break from my Fongafale vacation (see January '08 newsletter) to do the advance for Ross's Valentine's Day & Beyond season here in Papua New Guinea.

As you may be aware, Ross has decided to tour extensively throughout 2008; and to ease him into the experience, Coathanger is making sure that each venue is fully briefed as to his particular requirements as a professional international (well, once he gets here) touring entertainer.

The management of the 5 star Airways Hotel in Port Morseby - where Ross will be performing - have kindly put me up in their Presidential Suite for a few days whilst I check out the PA system and wine list.

And the sun shines bright!

To kick off Tour '08, Ross and the re-named Glen Combo (note:unfortunately a WA band that doesn't even appear to have a web site - I mean what a waste! - are currently using the 'Dot Combo' moniker) have already wowed audiences in Melbourne, Malwala, Mordialloc and Moorooduc - just to name a few places that begin with M.

And now, phase two of the Ryan blitzkrieg moves through the alphabet on to PNG and then to Ross's home state of Western Australia!

Our Gig Guide has all the relevant details but here's a 'deep background' overview of what lies ahead.

February '08

  Thurs 14th, Fri 15th & Sat 16th  Airways Hotel - Port Moresby (Solo)

Valentine's Day & Beyond. Ross's shows will take place in the Bacchus Restaurant at the Airways Hotel - a room frequented by Papuan power brokers, politicians and the elite of Morseby society - many of whom are keen Ross Ryan fans in much the same way as the Phantom and cargo cults are also popular in this part of the world

Unfortunately, due to the prohibitive cost of my current recognisance trip to PNG, Ken and Roy from Glen Combo will be unable to join Ross for these particular gigs.

  Thu 21st  The Elephant & Wheelbarrow – Northbridge, Perth

Because Ross grew up in Western Australia and lived for a number of years in Perth, he has many friends who still live there; and because they are either musicians or mature aged students, they have been unable to afford to attend any of Ross's gigs in recent years.

So for them (and you), we have arranged this FREE Ross Ryan gig at the E&W. That's right! Zip admittance! Cool huh?

Of course a percentage of the audience, unless they're New Guinea ex-pats, will be unfamiliar with Ross and his music, so expect a degree of rowdiness on the night. But hey, it's an English styled pub! And besides, Ross will be re-united with the Glen Combo: multi-instrumentalist Ken Stephenson and bassist Roy Zedras. So come on down and party!

  Fri 22nd  Friends Restaurant – Hyatt Hotel - Perth

On the other hand, if you're seeking a more civilised, intimate concert atmosphere; with great food and fine wines (and with fellow patrons who won't sing "Here we go, here we go ..." all evening) - then welcome to Friends !

This will be Ross's fourth appearance at the restaurant and the first with Glen Combo. Clyde & Lesley Bevan are terrific hosts and they make their customers feel right at home. Always a great night.

 Sat 23rd  The Lesmurdie Club - Walliston - WA

Due to the fact that I accidentally left my laptop in the hotel sauna, I'm afraid I don't have much info about this gig other than it's in a place called Walliston; it's near Perth and it's on a Saturday night. Maybe it might be a good idea to ring them ahead of time.

Wait a minute - I just remembered something!

When Ross and his family migrated to Australia from the US, they first lived in Brentwood Road, Wattle Grove - just outside of Perth. Ross also went to the Wattle Grove Primary School which, if you're coming from the city along Lesmurdie Rd, you'll drive right past! There's probably a plaque or statue or something like that out the front.

  Sun 24th  Quindanning Tavern - Ye Olde English Inn - Quindanning

Ross played at the Quindanning Tavern in 2005 - and if that gig is any indication - this final WA show will probably be the most charming.

Established in 1900 and about and hour and a half south of Perth, the hotel has a great old-world vibe; with generous Jarrah paneling, open wood fires, beautiful gardens, long verandahs and is run by the wonderful Lavender family - specialists in good old fashioned country hospitality.

This time around, Ross and the guys will be performing in a garden-based marquee setting for a balmy evening dining audience - bookings essential!

Mark Holden has been a Coathanger friend for many years. He often drops by our offices at Coathanger House in Glen Iris for a cup of coffee or to use the phone or have his car washed and is very popular with the young girls in the mail room who do his ironing.

Earlier this year, Mark invited me to the Melbourne opening of SHOUT! - a musical based on the life of Australian rock legend Johnny O'Keefe - in which (to the surprise of many critics) he does a sterling job playing Lee Gordon; O'Keefe's over-the-top, loudmouth, pill popping manager.

In an effort to quickly capitalise on Ross's perhaps temporary willingness to leave his house, we will be announcing details of the long mooted RR compilation album and hopefully, further touring dates.

With Valentine's Day almost upon us, I send you my love and best wishes. May you sleep justly, move gently and your hearts be gladdenly chocolate coated.

Connie Person
PNG Protocol
Coathanger Productions constance@coathanger.com.au