My kiddo has been in productions since Christmas, and I have seen an additional one as of yesterday and every time-tears!!! All of the plays have been so different, one that was sad about immigrating to America, but had tons of funny moments. One classic Broadway play, then Hairspray, and the one I saw yesterday-“Into the Heights”.

I will have to admit that I wasn’t interested in the subject matter of “Into the Heights”. I am more into classical theatre or big dance numbers, not as into modern American drama. I am a traditionalist I guess you would say. I also have been sick for almost 2 weeks, and felt that I really needed to go to support a church member’s son who is a main character.

So, after the first 30 minutes, I wasn’t fully connected to the characters, but I liked it. Everyone could sing really well. Everyone could dance too, really well. About 15 minutes before the end of the 1st act, I connected with a scene. Then, I found myself crying. I am the same person that cries at Hallmark commercials. I can cry watching the Peanuts.

I am a very sensitive person, but I don’t show it a lot anymore because of past hurts. I really do have a soft heart and I am a super hopeless romantic. I think that the guy who finds me will have to be a special man, because I am a very tender and loving gal. But on the other hand, whomever finds me will have to be special themselves, because I am a lot to handle sometimes:).

Anyway, if you have not been to live theatre lately, I encourage you to support it. This show was at a pretty prestigious theatre, so tickets started at 30.00. But good acting does not always have to come at a hefty price. I have been to 15 dollar theatre that rivaled what I saw yesterday that was held at lesser venues. My whole point is, that these people are really offering a service. They are entertaining us in person and opening our hearts and minds in the process (hopefully) in a way that movies can’t quite do.

Now I am a real movie buff. But to be in the room with these characters, live and in person is amazing. It is magic actually. Someone up there on the stage, typically not paid, spilling out their raw emotions and we get to engage with them even if just through tears or applause. I am so glad to be a part of the acting world (through my kiddo) because we have met so many great people! They all have these things in common: They are intelligent, talented, individuals and they are passionate folks who work so hard at their craft. I feel that people on the local level give so much and sometimes feel so little recognition.

If you haven’t been in awhile, look around your community. Check out a play that will interest you. Skip movie night, just once and see it for yourself. You will bless many people in the process, including yourself.

Simply~

Dee