Michael Moore in Vancouver

There wasn't an empty seat in the house and the crowd was bristling with excitement.  The energy was palpable and for good reason, Michael Moore is a superb speaker.  When we weren't laughing out loud as he read from his new book Here Comes Trouble we were nudging one another in agreement as he lamented over the state of politics in America.  There was a moment as he was preparing to change microphones when he asked us to sing a little song while he walked across the stage and the crowd broke out in a slightly off-key, but undeniably proud rendition of Oh, Canada! Rather than change mics he stayed where he was and sang along with us as the clever stage hand changed his background lighting to red.  I get goosebumps all over again just thinking about it! Overall we were a nice, friendly crowd, until the question and answer portion of the evening arrived.  Rather than raise our hands we raised our voices making it frustrating for some people trying to get noticed.  In my opinion, the rough flow of the evening created an authentic experience that I appreciated and found appropriately suited of the rumpled  speaker decked out in sneakers and a hoodie.  It all just seemed to fit.

Another touching moment came when he mentioned a fellow alum from his highschool, Boston Bruins goalie Tim Thomas who played against the Vancouver Canucks in the playoffs.  The crowd cheered at the name and Michael stood before us shaking his head in awe.   "Really?" he exclaimed, "You see, this is what makes you so unlike us. Even in defeat, you can recognize and applaud talent."

We think you're swell too Michael. Come back to see us anytime.