With a glance, Raphaël charms his audience. The crowd is smaller than during our previous visit to Juan, but what a presence! The victor of the year is not far off, and everyone is bubbling with excitement from their seats.
There isn’t the expected “17 to 27” category of people, but rather families and groups of friends, a representation fit for a diverse urban population.
Excited and attentive to the stage preparations, they shout and endorse the one they imagine is tense behind the scenes.
Raphaël knows that the lyrics penned by him, accompanied by music that has been revised time and again, will be the bridge between two worlds for the unique pleasure of a live performance.
The intro begins and lasts, clearly there is a technical problem. He speaks up, noting that he will try to do better. His performance slowly unfolds.
Better response comes from the audience, who had eyes only for him.
Is he accustomed to greater intimacy? Is Raphaël reserved? Is it easier for him when the energy comes to him?
He doesn’t interact with the crowd but he is there to sing, and that’s what he focuses on for a rather short duration. The versions remain original and his audience connects, a winning bet for him. The proof lies in the enthusiastic response that starts from the pit to the stands. He announces “Schengen”, the shadow stars go wild and fill the room with their joy.
As we leave, we hear the announcement of the last song, tomorrow it will be Placebo.
