Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Age of Aquarius - My Broadway Debut

Yes, I know I haven't posted my full 30 by 30 list yet (coming soon I promise). However, that doesn't mean I can't tell you about one item completed. This is probably the one thing I didn't think I'd be able to accomplish. This was sort of a pie-in-the-sky idea, more of a bucket list dream that a 30 by 30 dream.

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!

6 comments:

  1. Yes, our Broadway debute was quite thrilling! I'm so honored to have been with you to complete your first 30X30 task.
    PEACE & LOVE ALWAYS
    Mom (Aquarius)

    still singing...........
    Gimme a head with hair, long beautiful hair
    Shining, gleaming, steaming, flaxen, waxen
    Give me down to there, hair!
    Shoulder length, longer (hair!)
    Here baby, there mama, Everywhere daddy daddy

    ReplyDelete
  2. If anyone wonders where my hippie influence stems from, you can start with my mom. Aunt Pam and Wren following closely behind her.

    ReplyDelete
  3. One of my fav memories was sitting near the stage steps for Dinner theater of Caberet on Broadway (can't remember the name of the theater) anyway, you were what, sixteen? This nasty, wonderful, actress was sitting on the steps, legs spread wide, flicking her tongue at you. I remember looking at your mom like, maybe we should get you out of there. It was a great show and I'm glad we didn't.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Sorry, mispelled CABARET. How gouche!

    ReplyDelete
  5. hahaha! That was amazing! And Cabaret was at Studio 54 and I got in trouble for taking pictures! :)

    ReplyDelete
  6. UM AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Wow Casey! I can't believe you got to do this...seriously, the perfect play for you two to get on stage for :) LOVE IT! Bless your little hippie hearts!

    ReplyDelete