Reunited Police rock Vancouver

By M&C News May 29, 2007, 12:06 GMT

Police band members Sting (L) and Andy Summers perform during the kick-off of their reunion tour in Vancouver, British Columbia, 28 May 2007. EPA/LYLE STAFFORD

The Police kicked off their first world tour in more than 20 years in Vancouver, Canada on Sunday at the GM Place. Singer Sting, guitarist Andy Summers and drummer Stewart Copeland took to the stage to rock out classic hits like “Message in a Bottle” and “Roxanne” for a crowd of more than 20,000 people – including celebrities actress Penelope Cruz, and Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder.

During the show, Sting took time to joke with the crowd stating: “Since we haven't been together in 25 years, I'd like to introduce the band. Andy, this is Stewart.”

Although the concert was the official start to the band’s world tour, The Police played a “preview” performance for a crowd of about 4,000 members of their fanclub the night before. The fanclub performance was held at the same venue as the concert.

The members of The Police split in 1984 due to arguments within the group. The split happened during the last day of their Synchronicity world tour in Australia. They did reunite for a brief time in 1986, but the reunion only lasted for a few shows.

Since the break-up, Sting has moved on to find a successful solo career in music; Copeland has found a career in film and television composing; and Summers has discovered his jazz influence with several different projects.

The Police’s world tour is set to run throughout the year and end in early 2008. It is also predicted to be one of the highest grossing tours of the year. The Police have planned two North American stints, a European tour, and shows in Latin America, Japan, Australia and New Zealand.