Individuals who are involved in and have a love of theatre are a totally different breed of people altogether. They are often outgoing and completely wacky. They are the types of people who constantly keep you on your toes because you can never tell if they are being serious or are putting you on. These actors and actresses have a way of convincing you of anything. They use their talents to make you believe whatever tale they spin and even if you are clever enough to catch on, you go along with the story because it is extremely entertaining. Basically, these are people who know how to have a good time and how to make others around them enjoy themselves as well. Theatre nerds may be unpredictable in what they may say or do, but their general behavior patterns are very predictable. If you have a roommate who happens to be a theatre enthusiast, here is what you can expect.
1. Constantly blast showtunes
Whether they are doing homework, studying, cleaning or hanging out, showtunes are always playing in the background. Broadway melodies can brighten anybody's day so why rain on their parade? While you may be hesitant at first, you may learn that you like the music and may add some cast recordings to your collection.
2. Sing anywhere and everywhere
Theatre enthusiasts can belt out a song wherever they go. It doesn't matter who's watching. Don't be surprised if you hear them singing while walking across campus. The shower is also a likely place to hear singing. The acoustics are amazing and anyone sounds like a superstar in the shower.
3. Broadway décor
Posters and knick-knacks are all connected to the theatre and their favorite shows. You may see some comedy and tragedy masks, Playbill posters, and pictures of Idina Menzel, Neil Patrick Harris and Bette Midler.
4. Constant trips to New York to see shows
They always talk about the shows they have seen and the ones that they will be seeing. New York is their home away from home.
5. Reference quotes, characters, actors, and songs that you've never heard of before
Theatre enthusiasts know their stuff. Their vast Broadway knowledge tends to slip into their everyday conversations and can sometimes leave you confused. You'll catch on eventually if you are open to it. Sing out Louise!
6. Remember past lines
Anyone who has acted in or has worked on a show is both blessed and cursed to remember the lines. Maybe not all of them, but definitely a few. When two people who worked on the same show get together, they may carry a conversation that is completely fictional leaving you completely baffled. A foreign accent or two may also sneak in there.
7. Answer to different names
Lines and lyrics are not the only things that stick with you after working on a show. Your character names also become a part of you. Don't be alarmed if you see your roommate turn around and answer to a completely different name. Once you're Sandy for four months, you will answer to that name for life even if you're name is actually Lauren.
8. War stories from past shows they've worked on
You won't believe some of the insane things that happen while rehearsing or even performing a play. Working on a show gives you the best stories and experiences. Sometimes the experiences may have been intense, stressful, and challenging leaving you with war flashbacks when you hear a certain song or name of a show. All I can say is, don't cry for me Argentina and A 5, 6, 7, 8!
9. Innate ability to connect any word to a show tune
You could be carrying a very normal and casual conversation and before you know it your roommate is bursting into song! Anything you say can be converted into a Broadway ballad at the blink of an eye. "My paper is due tomorrow..." "Tomorrow! Tomorrow! I love ya tomorrow! You're always a day away."
10. Can harmonize on the spot
Musical theatre people have a way of always finding the harmony to anything on the spot. They can get together and sing something for fun for the first time and it sounds like they've been practicing it for months. This can be amazing to watch and very pleasant to listen to.
There is never a dull moment when you live with a theatre enthusiast. Enjoy the ride because as you'll see there is no business like show business.
