Being on stage was a second home to me and a lot of others at my high school. For some of my friends, the lights of Broadway emitted a warm welcome as they entered the theater. There were a few people I knew personally who would gladly jump at an opportunity to burst out into song, or quote a well-known production. Whether you love going to shows, or performing in them, this one’s for you.
1. You're up to date on all things on and off-Broadway.
Keeping up with shows is very important to you, and you burst with excitement while telling your friends about what new shows are coming, or what actor is in what show (whether or not they actually care).
2. You're constantly listening to the soundtrack of your favorite show.
(Sometimes you catch yourself singing along).
3. The simplest phrases relate to a show one way or another.
Hearing "the time is now" from your biology teacher makes you want to break out into "One Day More" from "Les Miserables"...not that I've had experience with that.
4. Supporting your favorite actor/actress in all of their shows.
You go to see everything they're in, even if it isn't the best production ever.
5. You're always referencing a show.
If it's in class, at lunch or in a group chat, you always find an opportunity to slip in something from a show in your conversation.
6. "Hamilton."
The most popular show on Broadway right now is the reason you will never be satisfied (see what I did there?). Probably because tickets are so expensive and it's sold out until...well...never? Let's just say I'll graduate college before I see "Hamilton."
7. Crying when your favorite show comes off Broadway.
It's as if a part of you has died because you know you won't be able to see the show another 500 times.
8. Waiting by the stage door was *possibly* the best part.
Of course the show was amazing, but getting your Playbill signed by the entirety of the cast and taking selfies with your favorite actor? Nothing compares to that.
9. The friends you make when performing last a lifetime.
Through all the productions I've been in, I was very lucky to have a group of friends to stick with backstage. A bond forms when creating art, and I'm happy to say these people are still in my life.
10. Taking a final bow.
Making a show is an emotional roller coaster. The cast and crew become your family, and when it's all over, you begin to wonder if anything can compare to the memories you've made on stage. The tears that follow are inevitable, especially if it's your final bow on your high school stage.
