Top Event at the Sporting Club Monte Carlo, Monaco.
Bal de la Croix-Rouge (Red Cross Ball):
Under the presidency of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II the ball was held on Friday, August 1, 2008 in truly exotic surroundings. Instead of the usual dinner-concert, diners enjoyed a seated al fresco dinner amongst the palm trees and flowers in the Sporting Monte-Carlo gardens, followed by a fabulous pop 'n' rock concert. The dinner was of course out of our range but we decided to go to the gig which took place in the in the Salle des Etoiles later that night.
On 1st August 2008 the Ex-Rolling Stones’ bass guitarist, Bill Wyman threw a concert party, the first dedicated to the 60’s Rock Movement. It was a historic event, Bill Wyman and the Rhythm Kings were accompanied by other unique musicians including Robin Gibb (Bee Gees), Mary Wilson (The Supremes), Donovan, Francis Cabrel, Louis Bertignac (Téléphone). Gary Brooker and more.
This year's Bal de la Croix-Rouge Monégasque (Ball of the Red Cross) on 1st August would feature Bill Wyman's Rhythm Kings. As the ticket fees were exorbitant, we got rather desperate but one day prior to the event we learned that the ticket prices for the gigs were slightly reduced. So we booked quickly and got the car & luggage ready for the long journey. Thursday night we had already passed 4 countries: Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein and Switzerland and on Friday early morning we left San Bernhardino tunnel with snake paths and narrow roads behind, entered BELLA ITALIA and headed towards Milano with many toll boxes and thick traffic. Driving in Italy can be hair raising! Eventually we reached the highway towards the Riviera, it was a hot day, many bottles of water required.
Unfortunately we had a breakdown and had to wait for an AA vehicle on a service, but luckily it was still early enough. We got the car fixed with the help of lovely Italian people at a Mercedes garage in Genova IN NO TIME AND AT NO COSTS - believe it or not - and luckily it was not a big thing. We thanked the guys and carried on as we still had a long way to go.
Along the beautiful Riviera, we entered France and eventually reached the coast road high above Monaco from where we had a breathtaking view at the beautiful and stunning principality, the world of the rich and beautiful, the tax haven ...
Down to Monaco again through narrow and winding roads, everything looked clean and cultivated and I liked it on the spot.
Finding our (disappointing but nevertheless expensive) hotel, checking in, relaxing and finally getting ready for the gig which was to start at 10.30 pm. The streets were full of live and the lovely female taxi driver took us on a little sightseeing until we arrived at the elegant Sporting Club Monte Carlo which is situated close to the sea in a wonderful neighbourhood. Under the presidency of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II, the ball was held in truly exotic surroundings.
Another breathtaking view at the Club's entrance, fountains in blue colour showing a read cross, service people in red uniforms opening the car doors - and here we were among all those who had already enjoyed the gala dinner and were now waiting for the concert to start. We got our wristbands, then headed into the awesome Salle des Etoiles (Hall of Stars), later we learned why it's called like this. We had standing as the seated area close to the stage was reserved for the dinner people, but that didn't prevent us from having a great time.
Nevertheless we had a good view to the stage and enjoyed the lovely place and the unique atmosphere. Every guest including us was given a free glass of champagne - sort of KIR ROYAL. We watched the arrival of the royal family around SAS Prince Albert who took their seats in a separated area to the left. Patience required, as the gig was rather delayed and started only around midnight after stunning fireworks. The roofs of the hall opened and we had a fantastic view into the sky - what a play of colours ! This was a quite stylish way to start into Ines birthday which began at midnight enjoying the amazing spectacle to the full!Then the Rhythm Kings (extended version) took to the stage, line-up: Georgie Fame, Terry Taylor, Beverley Skeete, Bill, Graham Broad, Albert, Nick, Frank, Geraint Watkins, Dave Bronze and Chris Stainton plus 2 additional background singers and 1 additional trumpeter. Bill presented a fabulous night of music from the 60’s with funny announcements. RKs did their first songs, and the ice was broken immediately, people were in the mood for dancing and enjoyed themselves. Partying with the rich and beautiful, can you believe it. Bill and the band backed their guests which included Donovan, Eddie Floyd, Robin Gibb, Mary Wilson of the Supremes, and French guitarist Louis Bertignac whom we spotted earlier walking his little daughter around the place. Set was longer than usual, see set list in the album. Louis did an amazing version of Jimi Hendrix' "Hey Joe", Robin Gibb did 3 songs, Mary Wilson deserves a special mention due to her powerful voice. All in all an exquisite performance, everybody was in top form and gave more than 100 %. Gary Brooker's "A whiter shade of pale" raised extra 'Aaahs' and 'Ooohs' as we knew the song is a favourite of Prince Albert's.
Then it was all over and we watched the Harley Davidsons and the Gibson Guitars and said hello to the RKs crew. We saw from far that each band member was introduced to the Prince. For the benefit of our aching feet, we sat down a bit watching the people on the dancefloor when suddenly Bill and entourage passed by. Bill saw us, stopped, said hello und shook our hands which was really nice of him. Prince Albert and his charming girl friend Charlène Wittstock where among Bill's group, the Prince stopped as well, turned his head, gave us a smile and nodded which left us speechless !
We continued strolling around and watching the scenery, bumped into Beverley and Louis Bertignac who were really nice. There was no fresh air outside as humidity was high and it was still hot. It got late and we returned to our hotel, totally exhausted from a long day but enjoying the illuminated ships and yachts down at the harbour.
Next day sightseeing in Monaco, taking more than 170 photos, and off to the Cote d'Azur, French side, looking for Keith Richard's former Villa Nellcote from the time when he was a tax exile. Photos are posted in different albums. Another lovely day at beautiful spots of the earth and despite all the efforts no regrets.
A quiet night in the South of France and next day saw us heading back home, not in one go but rather stopping by in the Austrian/Swiss/German border area for a relaxing night at a comfortable hotel.
