From the ballet to musical theater, I have discovered a part of me that will always be prominent. Although it may not show on a first impression, my love for the theater will forever be my unrevealed passion. Whether I am blaring broadway music throughout my dorm room until I annoy my friends or dancing through the halls, theater has taught me so much about myself. Here’s a list of the best part of the theater experience:
1. The People.
It’s something about the people that aren’t afraid of being their true selves while also playing a completely different role on stage. Their welcoming personalities always allow time for weirdness, strange dancing and sounds, all without any judgement whatsoever. The people who find themselves in a production are unique individuals, and are some of the best you’ll ever meet.
2. The Music.
Typically when preparing for a musical, or even a ballet, it is impossible to remove certain melodies or lyrics from your head after rehearsing them all day. Due to their catchy sound, broadway music offers unforgettable jingles that are impossible to erase from your mind. I still find myself wanting to shout, “EVERYBODY CUT FOOTLOOSE!” after being in Footloose my senior year. I mean, how does one even cut footloose?
3. The Costumes.
After being in a variety of shows, I have found myself playing roles that, sometimes, require alternative attire. Whether costumes are simply not financed into the show and you’re left to own devices to find an outfit from the Colonial time period, or you simply look ridiculous in what you’re required to wear, the theater spares no one. Take, for instance, the time I debuted in the Milwaukee Ballet's Nutcracker wearing a wig, a waistcoat and a neck cloth, all on stage:
Yes, those are trousers...
4. The Warm Ups.
Whilst attempting to be ready to have your voice shine later in the evening, vocal warm ups are often a must with many productions. From the classic, “Many Mumbling Mice” to the essential, “Me, May, My, Mo, Moo,” it is a wonder how someone’s voice doesn’t go hoarse before the lights dim and the curtain is drawn back.
5. Pre Show Rituals.
6. Opening Night.
While balancing school work, extracurriculars, family and friends, rehearsing for musicals everyday after school was the only thing getting me through the day. This was a time when I not only got to do something I enjoy, but I also got to enjoy the people around me. The thrill and excitement produced from the rush of being on a big stage in front of an audience is something I will never forget.
(Whitefish Bay High School's cast of Hello, Dolly! 2014)
