|
Post by thedoorslegend on Apr 17, 2013 7:30:27 GMT
Great,Thanks
|
|
|
Post by TheWallsScreamedPoetry on Dec 2, 2023 9:03:26 GMT
17 year old Doug Cameron was present at these Forum shows as 'assistant' to Vince Treanor. His book tells a rather cautionary tale that nowadays would have been dealt with by Operation Yewtree. Nuff said.
A mix of photos Mexico 1969
|
|
|
Post by TheWallsScreamedPoetry on Dec 16, 2023 11:19:41 GMT
A concert by The Doors scheduled for June 28 in Plaza Monumental bullring here was cancelled at the last moment when it was recalled that the date also marked the first anniversary of the 1968 student revolt in this city. It was feared that the crowds of youths who would turn out for the rock event might serve as a catalyst for some elements to touch off a demonstration commemorating the anniversary. Variety Magazine July 9 1969. On The forthcoming gig at Mexico City's Forum CafeThe Doors were received enthusiastically by Mexican youth, but not by the city officials or the Mexican press. The Doors were brought down to open up Mexico for future presentations by other top rock groups, according to Mexican promoter Mario Olmos. It had beenm reported before their arrival that they had been granted permission by president Gustava Kiaz Ordaz to perform in Mexico City's Plaza Monumental bullring where the poorer classes of people would be able to afford the price of admission. But it didn't work out that way. Instead, The Doors found themselves confined to perform during their four-night stay at the Forum Club and at a select crowd that could afford the 200 pesos ($16) cover charge. Attempts were made to get permits for the group to perform at the Mexican arena, the National Auditorium, and even in a security-tight closed performance for the students of Mexico's National University, but permission was not granted. Mayor Corona Del Rosal was afraid that a large public appearance by The Doors would spark some kind of riot or demonstration by students who have been in a state of agitation during the past year. Plans that had been announced to benefit shows, videotape concerts, and a photo art display did not materialize either. The Mexican press was not too kind to The Doors either. El Heraldo was quoted as calling the group "hippies" and referring to them as undesirables. The group was also denied accommodations in several of the large hotels and ended up staying in a smaller private hotel in one of the residential sections. There was no doubt that The Doors were a sensation at the Forum, where they played to record-breaking audiences nightly. With a selection of recorded songs, some that have not been released, and improvisations, they literally rocked the rafters loose. Jim Morrison, singing from the gut, completely losing himself as he does when he performs, had the audience totally absorbed, alternately screaming, chanting, and completely silent. Pat Alisau Variety Magazine July 8th 1969"The Doors were originally scheduled to appear on May 31 in Mexico City at the enormous Plaza Monumental, the largest bullfighting ring in the world. The performance is then tentatively rescheduled for June 27, but promoter Mario Olmos is unable to secure the required authorizations from city officials. As a result of the disruptive student revolts the previous year, President Gustavo Diaz and Mayor Corona Del Rosal are extremely wary of authorizing such an event at the Plaza, especially since it is so close to the anniversary of the student unrest. This was the third time that they retracted permission for the performance. Their apprehensions were magnified following a stadium riot in March, during which newspapers burned and chairs flew through the air while the Mexican band Tijuana played "Light My Fire." Apparently all hell had broken loose when it was announced that the Union Gap would not perform for such an unruly crowd.
In addition to these Plaza Monumental negotiations, preparations are being considered for a benefit designated for either the United Nations or the Red Cross, to be held at the Camino Real Hotel and/or an expensive dinner club. Such a benefit would contribute to the citizens of Mexico as well as further the political agendas of Mexican officials. Attempts are even made to schedule the Doors into the 18,000-seat National Auditorium. A television special is also discussed.
Finally, Mario Olmos approaches Javier Castro, who was the owner of the 1,000-seat diner club the Forum, and offers him the Doors for four consecutive nights at approximately $5,000 each evening. When this offer arrives, Castro immediately seizes the chance and schedules the Doors over a four-day weekend with a cover charge equivalent to a steep $16. Surprisingly, the Doors are never consulted about this situation, and upon arriving they are quite upset when they realize that the exorbitant cover charge will prevent many fans from attending. Despite the awkwardness of the situation, all four of the Doors' shows are reportedly outstanding. Mexico City's major newspaper runs two half-page advertisements for the broadcast association to air the first show on June 27. However there is no confirmation that this broadcast ever transpired. Similarly, arrangements to film one of the concerts for later use by both American and Mexican networks never materialize.
On opening night, Jim Morrison greets the audience in their native language to considerable applause. "Buenos noches, senores y senoritas," he rings out and then introduces the band members as "Ramon Manzarek, Juan Densmore, and Roberto Krieger." The Doors are besieged with requests for "The End" throughout the evening. When they finally oblige, an uncomfortable silence pervades the room until Jim begins the Oedipal section and the entire audience roars out the lyrics in unison with him.
It is not until later that the astonished Doors are informed that in Mexico such lyrics are especially revered for their daring and courage.The Doors On The Road
|
|