Happy New Year!
To celebrate the start of 2012, I am announcing my new blog: The Theatre Concierge. The idea for this blog came to me over the summer, but I wasn't quite sure what I wanted it to be, so in the meantime, I continued to express my thoughts about life and theatre here. The more I developed my new blog, the more I felt that The Theatre Concierge was a better identifier. Going forward, I will be posting solely to The Theatre Concierge.
The Theatre Concierge will include my typical discussion about shows I've seen in posts categorized as “Showtimes.” Depending on what inspires my future blog posts, I may also add a category or two for posts about my arts administration graduate studies. I hope you will continue to follow me here. Wishing you all the best in 2012!
~ LBD, aka The Theatre Concierge
Musical Theatre Quote of the Moment: "Just keep moving on. Anything you do, let it come from you. Then, it will be new. Give us more to see..." ~ Sunday in the Park with George
Monday, January 2, 2012
Friday, December 30, 2011
War Horse: Play vs. Film
War Horse is the best play I've ever seen, and the only play I've felt compelled to return to not once, but twice. In all honesty, I'd love to see it several more times. That's how touching, heart-wrenching, and mesmerizing the story and telling of War Horse is. Consequently, when I discovered the story would become a film, directed by Stephen Spielberg, I was apprehensive and yet eager to see it.
I had logicial concerns. How would real animals compare to the puppets? How would the movie be without the wonderful music from the play? Would the film have the same emotional impact as the live performance?
All of these concerns were alleviated from the moment Joey, aka "War Horse," was born. The movie is magical in its own way. As a different medium, the story plays out at times unlike the play would have, but these changes are welcomed and necessary to preserve the integrity of the story. There were plot differences, but I imagine many of these came from the book the play and movie were based on. For my thoughts on the play itself, see my previous blog posts about the New York production and the London production.
Ultimately, in the film, the goose still achieved comedic relief, the acting was still stellar, the horse playing Joey still shined (bravo on the casting of the animals!), and a song from the play even appeared in the background of one scene. Near the end, the whole audience was on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting to see how the plot unfolded. The film may not have been live theatre, but, like the play, the film was incredibly compelling. All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed it.
One of the best comparisons I've read about the the play vs. the film is from Howard Sherman. I think he made several great points, and like him, I am now eager to read the book as a follow up to seeing both the play and film.
~ LBD
Theatre Quote of the Moment: "Only remembered for what we have done." ~ War Horse (The play)
I had logicial concerns. How would real animals compare to the puppets? How would the movie be without the wonderful music from the play? Would the film have the same emotional impact as the live performance?
All of these concerns were alleviated from the moment Joey, aka "War Horse," was born. The movie is magical in its own way. As a different medium, the story plays out at times unlike the play would have, but these changes are welcomed and necessary to preserve the integrity of the story. There were plot differences, but I imagine many of these came from the book the play and movie were based on. For my thoughts on the play itself, see my previous blog posts about the New York production and the London production.
Ultimately, in the film, the goose still achieved comedic relief, the acting was still stellar, the horse playing Joey still shined (bravo on the casting of the animals!), and a song from the play even appeared in the background of one scene. Near the end, the whole audience was on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting to see how the plot unfolded. The film may not have been live theatre, but, like the play, the film was incredibly compelling. All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed it.
One of the best comparisons I've read about the the play vs. the film is from Howard Sherman. I think he made several great points, and like him, I am now eager to read the book as a follow up to seeing both the play and film.
~ LBD
Theatre Quote of the Moment: "Only remembered for what we have done." ~ War Horse (The play)
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Best Theatre Experiences of 2011
Only a couple days left in 2011. It's been a wonderful, busy, and life-changing year for me. I started my graduate degree in arts administration while working full-time, saw more shows this year than I've ever fit into one year before, and discovered friends who love theatre as much as I do along the way. I followed my heart in 2011, and I'm amazed at where it led.
There's been a lot of articles about the top 10 theatre moments in 2011, and I've been inspired to reflect on my own "top 10" as a result. I've been so fortunate this year in the realm of theatre that I found this exercise excruciating. I'm a terrible critic since I tend to love at least some part of everything I see. I'd rather let people know about all the great moments and reedeeming values even the shows I don't love as much as others have.
The Theatre Junkie's Top 10 Theatre Experiences of 2011
1. Les Miserables Both in the West End and on Tour for the 25th Anniversary Production in the U.S.
Anyone who knows me has some understanding of just how much I love this show. It can't be anything but number 1 for me. It's the show that got me into theatre and shaped my life. Why was it so special in 2011? For starters, I had the pleasure of seeing three talented Jean Valjeans: Alfie Boe, J. Mark McVey, and Joe Tokarz. Each special and worth seeing. I had a blast getting to know both the West End and US Tour cast pretty well in September and October. As this is a huge ensemble show, every person plays a key part, and both the casts I saw were spectacular. They put their hearts into their performances every night, and I was touched every time I saw the show.
2. “We Beseech Thee” in the Broadway Revival of Godspell
I hadn't seen Godspell until it came to Broadway this year, but I am so thankful it did. I thoroughly enjoyed myself the entire show, especially during Nick Blaemire's big number "We Beseech Thee." Check my earlier blog post for more details. I think most people who've seen the show can agree that the choreography in this number is impressive. Plus, the tune is pretty catchy too.
3. Marc Kudisch’s Cabaret, What Makes Me Tick
In an effort to expand my theatre attendance and involvement this year, I attended my first cabaret at Signature Theatre in Arlington, Virginia, and I chose to see Marc Kudisch. I couldn't have been more astounded by his song choices, range, and personal stories. Based on the audience reaction, I don't think I was the only one in awe and inspired. After his cabaret, I explored what makes me tick, and wrote a subsequent blog post about my findings. He's got quite a resume and quite a voice. With any luck, I'll see him in a Broadway show next year.
4. Next to Normal National Tour
Considering Next to Normal is one of my favorite shows (after Les Mis of course), I was pleased to hear a national tour would be coming my way and include Alice Ripley. I saw it as many times as I could and each time was fantastic. As there are only six people in the cast, each role is vital. This tour was very well cast. My favorite character, Henry, was played incredibly well by Preston Sadlier. I was so happy to see Jeremy Kushnier, Emma Hunton, and Asa Somers in the cast as well. Electrifying music. A real, honest story. It truly is a feel-everything musical.
5. Phantom of the Opera in the West End with the 25th Anniversary Cast
Not only did I get to see the first musical I ever saw for the third time live this year, but I got to see it in its original home complete with leads fresh from Les Mis. John Owen-Jones, Katie Hall, and Killian Donnelly were a fabulous trio (although parts were a little strange to watch since John and Katie previously played father and daughter). I had never seen a non-touring production of Phantom and it had been well over a decade since I saw the show, so I was overwhelmed by the music, costumes, scenery...pretty much everything.
6. War Horse in the West End and at the Lincoln Center
I have to give Matt Doyle some credit here since when he took on a lead role in the Lincoln Center production, I was finally determined to see this show. I was blown away by the cast, the story, the music, and, naturally, the puppetry. I always knew I would enjoy this play, but I didn't realize how much. I made a special point to see the show while I was in London, knowing the production varied from the Broadway version. I also made sure I caught the original cast again before several cast members leave next year. Not that I don't think the next cast will be great, but being attached to the current cast, I didn't want to miss my chance. I recommend seeing this play. It won the Tony for Best Play, and this remarkable show definitely deserved it.
7. The Return of Oklahoma to Arena Stage in D.C.
One of my wishes from 2010 was that I could see Oklahoma again at Arena Stage. Then, Arena Stage decided to bring back the show with several members of the original cast :o) Instead of seeing this show only once, I got see it six times, five this past year. You don't usually hear people describing Oklahoma as exciting, but this production was. The cast was ideal. The direction and choreography were superb. If this production happens to make it to Broadway next year, go see it!
8. Sutton Foster Performing “Anything Goes” in Anything Goes on Broadway
The first Broadway show I ever saw was Annie and Sutton Foster happened to be in the cast. She was also the first Eponine I ever saw in Les Mis when I was six. So...we have a history, and I am very fond of her. She's insanely talented. A genuine triple-threat. When I heard she was going to be starring in Anything Goes, the show was placed at the top of my must-see Broadway shows list. She didn't disappoint and earned antoher Tony. The highlight of the show for me is the show's title song "Anything Goes." What a great moment!
9. Aerial Sequence During the Spiderman: Turn Off the Dark Finale
I've seen Spiderman three times, and each performance was different. However, one of the more consistent parts of the show is the aerial fight between the Green Goblin (Patrick Page) and Spiderman (Reeve Carney), which is currently the show's finale. When performed without any glitches, the scene is mesmerizing and you can see what Julie Taymor had in mind for Spiderman on Broadway. It's thrilling for all ages.
10. Jan Maxwell Singing “Could I Leave You?” in Follies at the Kennedy Center and on Broadway
This moment practically made my jaw drop. Jan Maxwell's peformance was stunning. The whole show was beautiful and I loved the entire, star-studded cast, but this part was the highlight for me. WOW.
Honorable Mentions
1. Alexandra Silber’s Cabaret, London Still, at the Kennedy Center
2. Matt Shingledecker, Adam Chanler-Berat, and Annaleigh Ashford as Roger, Mark, and Maureen in Rent Off-Broadway
3. Euan Morton’s Portrayal of Leo Frank in Parade at Ford’s Theatre in D.C.
4. Equivocation at Arena Stage in D.C.
5. Hairspray at Signature Theatre in Arlington, Virginia
What a year. There were so many other shows and theatre-related concerts that I would have loved to see live, but I didn't get the opportunity to. Theatre is "in the moment" and it's impossible to see everything everywhere unfortunately. Looking forward to what next year has to offer!
~LBD
Musical Theatre Quote of the Moment: "Even if you're little you can do a lot, you mustn't let a little thing like little stop you." ~ Matilda
There's been a lot of articles about the top 10 theatre moments in 2011, and I've been inspired to reflect on my own "top 10" as a result. I've been so fortunate this year in the realm of theatre that I found this exercise excruciating. I'm a terrible critic since I tend to love at least some part of everything I see. I'd rather let people know about all the great moments and reedeeming values even the shows I don't love as much as others have.
The Theatre Junkie's Top 10 Theatre Experiences of 2011
1. Les Miserables Both in the West End and on Tour for the 25th Anniversary Production in the U.S.
Anyone who knows me has some understanding of just how much I love this show. It can't be anything but number 1 for me. It's the show that got me into theatre and shaped my life. Why was it so special in 2011? For starters, I had the pleasure of seeing three talented Jean Valjeans: Alfie Boe, J. Mark McVey, and Joe Tokarz. Each special and worth seeing. I had a blast getting to know both the West End and US Tour cast pretty well in September and October. As this is a huge ensemble show, every person plays a key part, and both the casts I saw were spectacular. They put their hearts into their performances every night, and I was touched every time I saw the show.
2. “We Beseech Thee” in the Broadway Revival of Godspell
I hadn't seen Godspell until it came to Broadway this year, but I am so thankful it did. I thoroughly enjoyed myself the entire show, especially during Nick Blaemire's big number "We Beseech Thee." Check my earlier blog post for more details. I think most people who've seen the show can agree that the choreography in this number is impressive. Plus, the tune is pretty catchy too.
3. Marc Kudisch’s Cabaret, What Makes Me Tick
In an effort to expand my theatre attendance and involvement this year, I attended my first cabaret at Signature Theatre in Arlington, Virginia, and I chose to see Marc Kudisch. I couldn't have been more astounded by his song choices, range, and personal stories. Based on the audience reaction, I don't think I was the only one in awe and inspired. After his cabaret, I explored what makes me tick, and wrote a subsequent blog post about my findings. He's got quite a resume and quite a voice. With any luck, I'll see him in a Broadway show next year.
4. Next to Normal National Tour
Considering Next to Normal is one of my favorite shows (after Les Mis of course), I was pleased to hear a national tour would be coming my way and include Alice Ripley. I saw it as many times as I could and each time was fantastic. As there are only six people in the cast, each role is vital. This tour was very well cast. My favorite character, Henry, was played incredibly well by Preston Sadlier. I was so happy to see Jeremy Kushnier, Emma Hunton, and Asa Somers in the cast as well. Electrifying music. A real, honest story. It truly is a feel-everything musical.
5. Phantom of the Opera in the West End with the 25th Anniversary Cast
Not only did I get to see the first musical I ever saw for the third time live this year, but I got to see it in its original home complete with leads fresh from Les Mis. John Owen-Jones, Katie Hall, and Killian Donnelly were a fabulous trio (although parts were a little strange to watch since John and Katie previously played father and daughter). I had never seen a non-touring production of Phantom and it had been well over a decade since I saw the show, so I was overwhelmed by the music, costumes, scenery...pretty much everything.
6. War Horse in the West End and at the Lincoln Center
I have to give Matt Doyle some credit here since when he took on a lead role in the Lincoln Center production, I was finally determined to see this show. I was blown away by the cast, the story, the music, and, naturally, the puppetry. I always knew I would enjoy this play, but I didn't realize how much. I made a special point to see the show while I was in London, knowing the production varied from the Broadway version. I also made sure I caught the original cast again before several cast members leave next year. Not that I don't think the next cast will be great, but being attached to the current cast, I didn't want to miss my chance. I recommend seeing this play. It won the Tony for Best Play, and this remarkable show definitely deserved it.
7. The Return of Oklahoma to Arena Stage in D.C.
One of my wishes from 2010 was that I could see Oklahoma again at Arena Stage. Then, Arena Stage decided to bring back the show with several members of the original cast :o) Instead of seeing this show only once, I got see it six times, five this past year. You don't usually hear people describing Oklahoma as exciting, but this production was. The cast was ideal. The direction and choreography were superb. If this production happens to make it to Broadway next year, go see it!
8. Sutton Foster Performing “Anything Goes” in Anything Goes on Broadway
The first Broadway show I ever saw was Annie and Sutton Foster happened to be in the cast. She was also the first Eponine I ever saw in Les Mis when I was six. So...we have a history, and I am very fond of her. She's insanely talented. A genuine triple-threat. When I heard she was going to be starring in Anything Goes, the show was placed at the top of my must-see Broadway shows list. She didn't disappoint and earned antoher Tony. The highlight of the show for me is the show's title song "Anything Goes." What a great moment!
9. Aerial Sequence During the Spiderman: Turn Off the Dark Finale
I've seen Spiderman three times, and each performance was different. However, one of the more consistent parts of the show is the aerial fight between the Green Goblin (Patrick Page) and Spiderman (Reeve Carney), which is currently the show's finale. When performed without any glitches, the scene is mesmerizing and you can see what Julie Taymor had in mind for Spiderman on Broadway. It's thrilling for all ages.
10. Jan Maxwell Singing “Could I Leave You?” in Follies at the Kennedy Center and on Broadway
This moment practically made my jaw drop. Jan Maxwell's peformance was stunning. The whole show was beautiful and I loved the entire, star-studded cast, but this part was the highlight for me. WOW.
Honorable Mentions
1. Alexandra Silber’s Cabaret, London Still, at the Kennedy Center
2. Matt Shingledecker, Adam Chanler-Berat, and Annaleigh Ashford as Roger, Mark, and Maureen in Rent Off-Broadway
3. Euan Morton’s Portrayal of Leo Frank in Parade at Ford’s Theatre in D.C.
4. Equivocation at Arena Stage in D.C.
5. Hairspray at Signature Theatre in Arlington, Virginia
What a year. There were so many other shows and theatre-related concerts that I would have loved to see live, but I didn't get the opportunity to. Theatre is "in the moment" and it's impossible to see everything everywhere unfortunately. Looking forward to what next year has to offer!
~LBD
Musical Theatre Quote of the Moment: "Even if you're little you can do a lot, you mustn't let a little thing like little stop you." ~ Matilda
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Come Sing About Love!
Last weekend, I had the pleasure of seeing Godspell on Broadway. The new revival is full of energy, inspiration, and heart. I’ve never seen a more engaging or encouraging show.
The show follows the book of Matthew in the Bible, and Hunter Parrish (Weeds, Spring Awakening, 17 Again) stuns as Jesus. He shares the stage with a small but remarkable ensemble of other young actors. Each ensemble member has a big solo number. I enjoyed several of the numbers in particular – “Prepare Ye, the Way of the Lord,” “Day by Day,” and “Light of the World,” but the highlight of the show for me was “We Beseech Thee,” led by the magnificent Nick Blaemire. During the song, the cast manages to sing excellently while jumping on trampolines – no easy task. You might recognize some ensemble members from TV appearances, like Anna Maria Perez de Tagle from Camp Rock and Telly Leung from Glee.
The shows joyful message will leave you aching for more. I loved it so much that I got tickets immediately to return three times, which is a lot considering I don’t live in New York City. I was especially lucky the night I went because I won the post-show lotto and received a free backstage tour. I saw the dressing rooms, props, stage, and backstage. I even met Hunter Parrish, Anna Maria Perez de Tagle and Telly Leung on stage! The show incorporates trampolines, which I had the pleasure of testing the bounce on, and water pits, which I checked out because I could. After seeing what’s behind Godspell, I want to see it again even more.
The show follows the book of Matthew in the Bible, and Hunter Parrish (Weeds, Spring Awakening, 17 Again) stuns as Jesus. He shares the stage with a small but remarkable ensemble of other young actors. Each ensemble member has a big solo number. I enjoyed several of the numbers in particular – “Prepare Ye, the Way of the Lord,” “Day by Day,” and “Light of the World,” but the highlight of the show for me was “We Beseech Thee,” led by the magnificent Nick Blaemire. During the song, the cast manages to sing excellently while jumping on trampolines – no easy task. You might recognize some ensemble members from TV appearances, like Anna Maria Perez de Tagle from Camp Rock and Telly Leung from Glee.
The shows joyful message will leave you aching for more. I loved it so much that I got tickets immediately to return three times, which is a lot considering I don’t live in New York City. I was especially lucky the night I went because I won the post-show lotto and received a free backstage tour. I saw the dressing rooms, props, stage, and backstage. I even met Hunter Parrish, Anna Maria Perez de Tagle and Telly Leung on stage! The show incorporates trampolines, which I had the pleasure of testing the bounce on, and water pits, which I checked out because I could. After seeing what’s behind Godspell, I want to see it again even more.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Love Is Everlasting
It's been a while, and that's largely because I've been supporting my love, my passion - musical theatre. Most of October, I spent my free time seeing the Les Miserables 25th Anniversary Tour. My love for that show is endless and amazingly, it keeps on growing. J. Mark McVey, the current John Valjean, does an excellent job of portraying the story's themes of love, hope, and redemption. Les Miserables genuinely depicts one's ability to create a better life despite harsh, uncaring circumstances.
The entire ensemble is incredible. Chasten Harmon, Eponine, sings "On My Own" with amazing vigor. When she sings "pretending," I got chills every time, and I've seen her as Eponine 13 times. Betsy Morgan's Fantine is heartfelt, strong, and honest. Her rendition of "Dreamed a Dream" was magical and moving. Every night watching her die was very moving, and I loved when she returned from the dead to welcome Jean Valjean to Heaven. Andrew Varela almost made me a convert to Team Javert, almost. He rejuvenated the role of Javert and when he sang "Stars," I shivered from the power and talent behind his words. Joseph Spieldenner was the best Grantaire I have ever seen, and I have seen the show 31 times. His Grantaire had heart, courage, and joy. Watching him as Gavroche died was one of the highlights of the show. He also played a blind man exquisitely during "Master of the House." I looked forward to hearing him sing "Drink With Me" at every performance. I was fortunate to see many of Justin Scott Brown's final performances as Marius. He resembled the character portrayed in Victor Hugo's books magnificently. One of my favorite additions to this new version of the show was Kylie McVey, who played a young girl that was added to the ensemble. She is wise beyond her eight years. Her character made the show more believeable and realistic overall.
The show has many lyrics that are touching. My favorite line is "...for love is everlasting, and remember, the truth that once was spoken, to love another person is to see the face of God," I loved the tour so much, I already have plans to see it multiple times next year.
The entire ensemble is incredible. Chasten Harmon, Eponine, sings "On My Own" with amazing vigor. When she sings "pretending," I got chills every time, and I've seen her as Eponine 13 times. Betsy Morgan's Fantine is heartfelt, strong, and honest. Her rendition of "Dreamed a Dream" was magical and moving. Every night watching her die was very moving, and I loved when she returned from the dead to welcome Jean Valjean to Heaven. Andrew Varela almost made me a convert to Team Javert, almost. He rejuvenated the role of Javert and when he sang "Stars," I shivered from the power and talent behind his words. Joseph Spieldenner was the best Grantaire I have ever seen, and I have seen the show 31 times. His Grantaire had heart, courage, and joy. Watching him as Gavroche died was one of the highlights of the show. He also played a blind man exquisitely during "Master of the House." I looked forward to hearing him sing "Drink With Me" at every performance. I was fortunate to see many of Justin Scott Brown's final performances as Marius. He resembled the character portrayed in Victor Hugo's books magnificently. One of my favorite additions to this new version of the show was Kylie McVey, who played a young girl that was added to the ensemble. She is wise beyond her eight years. Her character made the show more believeable and realistic overall.
The show has many lyrics that are touching. My favorite line is "...for love is everlasting, and remember, the truth that once was spoken, to love another person is to see the face of God," I loved the tour so much, I already have plans to see it multiple times next year.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Love Changes Everything
Sometimes, I reflect on the shows that have deeply affected me. Usually, I think back at how I felt after my first time experiencing the show. How old was I? Where was I? What specifically moved me? Has this experience changed the course of my life? In particular, the last question makes me pause, as I realize the answer will always be “yes.” Like the Aspects of Love song explains, “love changes everything,” and my love of theatre has profoundly changed my life.
This love has inspired me to see as many shows as possible, connect with fellow theatre enthusiasts, and transform my career by pursuing a MS in arts administration and an arts management profession. Not only has theatre influenced my friendships, but it has influenced where I am willing to live and where I choose to vacation. Moreover, musicals especially motivate me to live a better, more dynamic and honest life.
The best example of this for me is Les Miserables. Anyone familiar with the show, based on Victor Hugo’s book, will recall Jean Valjean’s journey of redemption, grace, and love. I learned of the story and the musical when I was five, and I first saw the show when I was six. Every time I see the musical or read the book, I understand more about living a righteous life. Furthermore, each lyric’s expression of despair, isolation, ambition, desire, love or hope inspires me as I struggle through the ups and downs of life.
The new 25th anniversary production of Les Miserables incorporates fresh direction and orchestrations that invigorate the always touching musical. I’ll always love the original interpretation of the musical, but the new version presents the powerful message, music, and story Les Mis in an equally rousing manner. An updated tour of Les Miserables is currently running in the United States, and I highly recommend you see it if you get the opportunity. Each time I see Les Mis, I am in awe of how God’s love changes Jean Valjean’s life. Even though the show is entitled “The Miserables,” I always leave the theatre feeling fulfilled and overjoyed.
This love has inspired me to see as many shows as possible, connect with fellow theatre enthusiasts, and transform my career by pursuing a MS in arts administration and an arts management profession. Not only has theatre influenced my friendships, but it has influenced where I am willing to live and where I choose to vacation. Moreover, musicals especially motivate me to live a better, more dynamic and honest life.
The best example of this for me is Les Miserables. Anyone familiar with the show, based on Victor Hugo’s book, will recall Jean Valjean’s journey of redemption, grace, and love. I learned of the story and the musical when I was five, and I first saw the show when I was six. Every time I see the musical or read the book, I understand more about living a righteous life. Furthermore, each lyric’s expression of despair, isolation, ambition, desire, love or hope inspires me as I struggle through the ups and downs of life.
The new 25th anniversary production of Les Miserables incorporates fresh direction and orchestrations that invigorate the always touching musical. I’ll always love the original interpretation of the musical, but the new version presents the powerful message, music, and story Les Mis in an equally rousing manner. An updated tour of Les Miserables is currently running in the United States, and I highly recommend you see it if you get the opportunity. Each time I see Les Mis, I am in awe of how God’s love changes Jean Valjean’s life. Even though the show is entitled “The Miserables,” I always leave the theatre feeling fulfilled and overjoyed.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
What Makes Me Tick
Exactly two months ago, I saw an entertaining and inspiring Marc Kudisch concert entitled "What Makes Me Tick." As he explained what makes him tick, I started to ponder what makes me tick. After taking some time to really think about it, I came up with six things that make me tick: Experience, Creation, Exploration, Connection, Expression, and Activity.
Experience
Experiencing life, love, joy...living is about experiencing. I try to experience something joyful every day. My favorite experience is watching a musical. My favorite musical to experience is Les Miserables, not surprisingly. Experiencing Les Miserables fills me up with emotion in the best way possible.
Creation
As someone who appreciates the arts and loves musical theatre, I love the act of creation. "Making something out of nothing" ~ There is something amazing about that. I love to create too, whether I am writing a blog post or essay, taking pictures, or crafting a collage, there is something very special about making something that wasn't there before. It produces a feeling of achievement and leaves something behind that wouldn't be there without you.
Exploration
I love to travel and visit cities, and one of my favorite things to do in a new place or somewhere I haven't been in a while is explore. I love to walk everywhere and discover things I've never seen. There is so much to see and do in life, and if I could, I would spend my life traveling the world (and seeing shows along the way). Exploration leads to understanding of other cultures, geography, people, etc.
Connection
Without connection, life would be...unbearable. Connecting with family, friends, strangers...as people, we're meant to be with other people. Moreover, connection is key to theatre. Actors need to connect with an audience. Connection is a very powerful feeling.
Expression
I think most everyone feels the "need to express, to communicate." We all have feelings, and every one has different means for sharing them. New musicals and plays are part of someone's form of expression. For me, this blog is a way to express myself. It's essential, and it can lead to amazing works of art.
Activity
If my month of September didn't make this point, I am person who keeps busy with lots of activites. Usually, when I don't have much going on, I am planning my next trip, my next show, my next dinner with friends ~ something. I have trouble understanding the idea of rest and relaxation. Even on vacation, I'm like the energizer bunny ~ I just keep going and going and going. We only have so much time, and I strive to make the most of every second I'm given.
Why do the above make me tick? They excite me. They energize me. They make me, me. Most of all they electrify me. Billy Elliot sang it best ~ "I can't really explain it. I haven't got the words. It's a feeling that I can't control. I suppose it's like forgetting, losing who you are. And at the same time something makes you whole...electricity, sparks inside of me. And I'm free, I'm free!"
~ LBD
Musical Theatre Quote of the Moment: "But then I feel it move me. Like a burning deep inside. Something bursting me wide open impossible to hide. And suddenly I'm flying, flying like a bird. Like electricity, electricity. Sparks inside of me. And I'm free I'm free" ~ Billy Elliot
Experience
Experiencing life, love, joy...living is about experiencing. I try to experience something joyful every day. My favorite experience is watching a musical. My favorite musical to experience is Les Miserables, not surprisingly. Experiencing Les Miserables fills me up with emotion in the best way possible.
Creation
As someone who appreciates the arts and loves musical theatre, I love the act of creation. "Making something out of nothing" ~ There is something amazing about that. I love to create too, whether I am writing a blog post or essay, taking pictures, or crafting a collage, there is something very special about making something that wasn't there before. It produces a feeling of achievement and leaves something behind that wouldn't be there without you.
Exploration
I love to travel and visit cities, and one of my favorite things to do in a new place or somewhere I haven't been in a while is explore. I love to walk everywhere and discover things I've never seen. There is so much to see and do in life, and if I could, I would spend my life traveling the world (and seeing shows along the way). Exploration leads to understanding of other cultures, geography, people, etc.
Connection
Without connection, life would be...unbearable. Connecting with family, friends, strangers...as people, we're meant to be with other people. Moreover, connection is key to theatre. Actors need to connect with an audience. Connection is a very powerful feeling.
Expression
I think most everyone feels the "need to express, to communicate." We all have feelings, and every one has different means for sharing them. New musicals and plays are part of someone's form of expression. For me, this blog is a way to express myself. It's essential, and it can lead to amazing works of art.
Activity
If my month of September didn't make this point, I am person who keeps busy with lots of activites. Usually, when I don't have much going on, I am planning my next trip, my next show, my next dinner with friends ~ something. I have trouble understanding the idea of rest and relaxation. Even on vacation, I'm like the energizer bunny ~ I just keep going and going and going. We only have so much time, and I strive to make the most of every second I'm given.
Why do the above make me tick? They excite me. They energize me. They make me, me. Most of all they electrify me. Billy Elliot sang it best ~ "I can't really explain it. I haven't got the words. It's a feeling that I can't control. I suppose it's like forgetting, losing who you are. And at the same time something makes you whole...electricity, sparks inside of me. And I'm free, I'm free!"
~ LBD
Musical Theatre Quote of the Moment: "But then I feel it move me. Like a burning deep inside. Something bursting me wide open impossible to hide. And suddenly I'm flying, flying like a bird. Like electricity, electricity. Sparks inside of me. And I'm free I'm free" ~ Billy Elliot
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