Singin' In The Rain

So, as of this summer, 2009, I was blessed by my devoted parents who drove me endlessly to rehearsals that were an hour away to be a part one of the most loving casts I will probably ever know. One very important thing that has happened to me through this journey is just well...learning people skills. I've learned how to appreciate people more for what they are, and encounter new kinds of people outside my comfort zone. And one of the most important lessons you will ever learn about people: you have to give a little to get a little. That goes for any form of relationship. I knew that before, but it is truly learned with experience.

Even when I was in choir, long, tedious rehearsals were never something that you'd find me complaining about. It was always a constant learning experience. How to show people who you truly are backstage, is my biggest challenge. Despite my natural tendency to let others talk, I had to be conscious of expressing enough of myself to show people what I can be. There's no question; it has to be done. And when you risk and you give, you learn about other people. I tell you, it is so interesting to learn about other people's backgrounds, because everyone comes from a totally different experiences, especially since I was one of the only cast members to live as far away as I do from the theater. I will probably associate this show with these gracious, tender people for a while after this show ends. That's what keeps me from post-show depression: I just have to remind myself of all the memories and growth that I will always have with me because of what happened in the past. And I shall embrace it for all it's worth. I like to embrace my past for all it's worth, for it will only help me in the future. Oh and the near future is telling me that I'm going to be in college in two weeks....HUH??!??!?!

Tonight was our seventh show out of our ten, and this time I made sure I was able to watch most of the choreography. And I am astounded by the dancers' talents, which I can appreciate so much more when I visualize myself attempting to do it on the stage in a semi-professional production such as Plays in the Park. Watching the leads' feet move in the wonderful and intricate tap dancing numbers amazed me again like I saw it for the first time, but what makes it different is that I was able to scrutinize over every little step that they did, so then I could try to mimic it backstage; just to see if I was capable of at least imitating it. I found myself taking on the role of a swinger, trying to see if I am capable of doing a little bit of every part. Quite the challenge, and quite the fun time.

But what always captures me the most on the stage above all dancing and singing, is the strong emotion captured in between the lines, or should I say, in between the feet. The magical grin or eyes that say "I'm here, and I love it" in the truest meaning of the phrase. That's what I try to say with my face every night. And so I say, "come on with the rain, I've a smile on my face".