Here at Ohio University, we have free art for students. Meaning, if I want to see a production being put on, all I have to do is show a valid student ID to get in. This past week I utilised that and went to see a production of "Urinetown," the musical. It was fantastic. Not only that but it sparked the nostalgia in me that makes me miss being a theatre kid ever so much! I have been reminiscing ever since and have come up with 5 things that I miss about being in theatre.
1. Audition Prep
From the moment the show is announced, you are already prepping for auditions. You immediately download the entire soundtrack (if it is a musical, of course) and know that soundtrack inside and out. This includes jam sessions in the car with the kids who will become your fellow cast members. (These jam sessions continue even after you have been cast.)
2. Rehearsal
No matter how much you complain, you know you love rehearsal. It consumes your life but it is so worth it, especially in the end. You make memories with your fellow cast members that will last a lifetime. These are the times where you not only make memories, but form incredible friendships. You get to watch the show transform from scratch into completion and it is an amazing transformation.
3. The Jokes
Bonding comes from not only rehearsal, but the show jokes are made that no one else will know. I miss the days where people actually knew what I was talking about when I was referencing one of my old shows. Just the other day one of my professors mentioned the word "glory" and I immediately wanted to start jamming to "Pippin." It is hard when you think you're funny, but no one understands you.
4. Pre-Show Warmups
Every theatre department has a different way of warming up, but it is always so much fun. Whether it is wandering around the room blurting out tongue twisters or acting like you are Sharpay Evans, it is always a blast. I miss feeling the adrenaline pumping through my veins before entering the backstage area.
5. The Feeling During Bows
The applause from the audience is a feeling like no other. Especially standing ovations. Not to mention you cannot stop grinning due to the overwhelming feeling of joy you have due to the fact that you put on such a magnificent show. Clapping for your fellow friends and cast members who have done so much for the show is another great addition to bows as well. The whole experience of bows is just pure happiness.
Though my days of theatre are over I know that; once a theatre kid, always a theatre kid.
