Internet JanitorLast night in Vancouver, BC, Canada, I attended my first Ghost ritual! I chose the Anointed VIP experience, which I did not factor in the hours of standing and feel like I’m possibly permanently crippled, but it was still a transcendent experience overall.
For those who are not aware, the Anointed VIP experience is GA only, in the pit (i.e., standing) right up to the stage. In this case, we were able to enter the pit at 6 PM, whereas the general public would not be allowed in until 6:30 PM, so you can get right up near-ish the stage. There is a Members of the Clergy group as well, who will, by and large, get the positions up along the fence, but even being a few rows of people back, the view is still amazing. The Anoited experience also includes access to the Ghost musequm which is full of coffins of old Papas and memorabilia.
The package also includes a goody bag, which this year included a Papa V keychain, a large pin and a lanyard. You also get access to the Ghost Mueseum and even though the concert portion is a phone-free experience, you can pull your phone from the Yondr pouch for the museum to take all the photos you want.
There were so many amazing people all around me in costume in an all-inclusive experience where everyone is welcome.
The concert was as close to a religious experience as an atheist can ever get. Papa V was a magnificent dirty bird of mischief, holding the audience in the palm of his hand. I also loved the interaction the Names Gouls had with the audience. The stage setup is something to behold with a giant grucifix (think an upside-down crucifix) that moved. The concert begins with a giant black drape around the stage, and then Peacefield beings, and on the second “Oh, child, stay close to me,” it drops, and the crowd goes insane. Watch the video for Peacefield if you want to see what a Ghost concert is like.
It was not a cheap experience, but for me it was worth every single penny. However, next time they come back (which hopefully won’t be as long as this time was), I’ll choose the VIP ascended package, which gives you a seat. A glorious seat. Sitting. Love it.
