Greetings Matt
It'll be better to start with reading 'manuals' section. After that, feel free to ask all your questions at questions forum. Whenever you need something, like an instrument or book, shout your request here at your topic and we'll take care of it soon. Also you can share your personal progress, learned skills or previous show quality here : )
Umm, when it comes to your questions.. If you need an instrument and a few books, i'll be at London for next ten days. Hitch NY and then London, meet me there ; ) It's up to you to cancel the show, it'll probably help your newbie tour if that'll be your first one..