Anyone gone? Is going?
I spent my 53rd birthday there last night, at the show in Chicago. Bought a VIP package and won a backstage pass. Just overall a spectacularly awesome experience that I recommend.
The ‘merchandise package’ as part of the VIP package was a U2 labeled external phone battery and cord, a U2 labeled neck pillow, a large net bag and a luggage label. Was hoping for a T-shirt, but had to buy it myself. Of course, walk right up to the VIP merch table with no wait.
Now the backstage pass does not include meeting the band. It included meeting the production staff, the sound guy and the tour manager. I (alone in the group of 6) ate a piece of popcorn reserved for the production guys (was offered). We saw 8 cases of guitars and spoke to a roadie who had worked for them for 33 years. He handed Edge (I believe) a new Guitar between every song. He then gave us each a pick from the cases.
Saw a couple of attractive women and some teenagers (mostly boys) walk out of the catering area while we were talking to the tour manager. Later our tour guide was talking to someone else and said that among them were Bono’s wife and son. Were told during the concert (by Bono on stage) that their whole families were along for the tour, and that Johnny Cash’s son was there too. Sounded from our tour guide after the show like their kids had some friends along.
Then we got our pictures taken on stage, after which they confiscated the back stage passes from us. No keeping them as souvenirs. 
This was the United Center, so you’re in a Hockey/Basketball arena, with the stage running down the middle from end to end. I was in section 111, Row 1, Seat 9. Basically ‘center ice’.
Musically, they opened with The Miracle (of Joey Ramone) and a few other songs off the album. Played too much Zooropa era stuff for my tastes, but finished strong. Brought a woman on stage and gave her this cell-phone that was apparently streaming live internationally. Turns out she’d been on stage with them 10 years previously in a different state. Then they bought this local (I believe) singer and a guitar player on stage too.
Of course the usual “Thank you and Good Night” departure, with NO change in the house lights. Come back out about 3-4 minutes later and play another four songs.
The tour manager mentioned the tour being extended next year. Maybe I’ll do this again.
I took about 30-ish pics, a 15 second video and a 30 second video. Posted 20-25 of the pics and the video on my Facebook page.
Hell, I sang, I danced, I had a great time. Nothing more to ask for.