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Mob scene as Wiggles evacuated
Philip Coorey 03nov03 PANDEMONIUM erupted in a New York fire station yesterday after an appearance by the Wiggles. After performing to about 200 singing and squealing children some of their most loved hits, including Hot Potato, Cold Spaghetti and Wake up Jeff, the friendly foursome was mobbed. With all the hysteria reminiscent of a Beatles tour, parents and kids stormed the men seeking autographs and photos. What was supposed to be a 30-minute impromptu performance, lasted an hour before the Wiggles were whisked away in a police van because they had a concert to perform. One of the parents, who brought his kids and personal photographer, was City Hall Speaker Gifford Miller. The gathering at Engine Company 24, Ladder Company 21 in Manhattan was arranged so Mr Miller could make a New York City Council proclamation honouring the Wiggles. When the Wiggles toured New York in November 2001, just after the September 11 tragedy, they were touched by the presence in the audience of several firefighters accompanying a widow and daughter. The husband and father, Brian Cannizarro, died at the World Trade Centre. Subsequently, the Wiggles dedicated their Wiggly Safari DVD to Mr Cannizarro and have a song New York Firefighter on a forthcoming CD. The film clip was shot at a New York firehouse. "In addition to being a great educational resource for children both in Australia and in this country, the Wiggles have continued the great tradition of mutual support between our two peoples," Mr Miller said. "And my kids, like hundreds of thousands of others in the city, love the Wiggles." The Wiggles have sold out 12 shows at New York's Madison Square Garden and their bus tour, their ninth, has sold out more than 50 shows in eight states. |
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