Those of you who know me, know about my absolute love of Broadway musicals, theatre, and the arts in general. It is more than a love, it is a passion. I performed in plays in Muskogee throughout high school, but sadly lacked the talent to take it to the next level (except in my dreams where I'm a STAR!!). If there is anyone who is more passionate about the arts that me, it is my mother. I tell my husband all the time to blame her when I spend money on tickets to shows.
I am lucky enough to work for a company that sends me on incredible trips sometimes. The weekend of my mom's birthday, I traveled to New York City for the announcement of a HUGE project we're doing this year. My wonderful family got together and we all payed for my mom to join me in NYC for the weekend to celebrate her birthday the most joyous way possible...going to the theatre!
My mom met me on Thursday night (along with another friend who always likes to celebrate!). I worked on Friday, and Friday night the fun began, and my dream came true.
After much deliberation, we decided to see HAIR. It received great reviews and front row tickets were available. Now, I typically do not prefer to sit too close to the stage, but her heard the actors mess with the front row and we were all about that.
We didn't have high expectations, but the show was INCREDIBLE. The performers were magnificent. I am in awe of their talent. The message of the show was also something I've decided to adopt into my life. The message...simply to LOVE!
The show goes on. My mom told me mere moments before curtain that there was a nude scene (I'm talking everyone on stage, completely naked). This was only slightly awkward sitting next to my mother, but you know, I wouldn't have it any other way. Could be worse, could have been there with my DAD! ;)
At the end of the show, everyone is singing along to "LET THE SUN SHINE!!!" and waving our arms. I notice out of the corner of my eye, the usher placing a rail on the stairs to the stage. I then look at the lead male, Claude, and he's motioning for people to come one stage. I grab my mom's arm (probably nearly yanking it from its socket) and pull her on stage. We were probably the 3rd and 4th people up there. My mom pushes me to center stage (where we belong) and we sing and dance to "LET THE SUN SHINE...LET THE SUN SHINE IN!!!"
We were high, not on what the characters were "smoking" in the show, but on our LIFE on Broadway. My mom then points to man standing about 6 feet from us and says, "hey, who is that guy? He looks familiar." I look and it doesn't quite register. Then the lady next to us says, "Oh my gosh, it's JOSH GROBAN!" OMG...Mr. Oh Holy Night himself, right there!!! That was the cherry on top of the best sundae ever created!
Only regret...we have no photos. Cameras are not allowed in the theatres. Why, OH WHY...didn't I grab my cell phone?!?! All I have is this:
I haven't stopped listening to the soundtrack for HAIR since. It is moving, inspiring and SO much fun!
So there you have it. My mother and my Broadway debut, and one item off my list. We picked up the paper the next morning and no worries, we received RAVE reviews! ;)
If you are in NYC want to experience the life-altering wonderment of HAIR, click here!
