A Summer of Theatre: Embracing Music, Growth, and Community🥰

As the curtain closes on our final performance, I’m reminded that every note played and every hour spent was a step towards something extraordinary…

🩷Marcia

This Summer has been an extraordinary journey as I immersed myself in the world of local theater, serving as one of the pianist. It all began in February, when I tentatively dusted off my pianos skills and joined the practice sessions that would continue every week until our first performance on memorial day weekend. From that point on, our rehearsals continued weekly, and our performances lit up every weekend, sometimes even twice a weekend.

Initially, I was a bit out of practice with playing for anyone other than myself. The idea of performing with and for a group of dancers and singers was both thrilling and nerve-wracking. I found myself confronting moments of uncertainty and nervousness, questioning my ability to keep up with the dynamic and demanding environment of theater.

One of the most inspiring aspects of this experience was witnessing the unwavering commitment of all the participants. The melodrama actors, the Olio dancers and singers, and of course, the fellow musicians, all demonstrated a level of dedication that was truly humbling. Their passion and hard work, pushed me to step up my game, and I realized the necessity of committing myself fully to the rehearsals and my practice schedule.

At times, I felt like an athlete, requiring not just musical skill, but also discipline and endurance. The demands of rehearsing regularly and preparing for multiple performances each weekend meant that I had to adopt a structured and focused approach to my practice. It was a rigorous process, but the growth experience was worth every moment of effort.

As the weeks passed, my nervousness began to transform into excitement. Performing became a joy rather than a challenge, and I started to appreciate the unique community I’d become a part of. It was incredibly fun to meet and collaborate with a diverse group of people, each bringing their own talents and energy to the stage. This community became a source of support and inspiration, reminding me of the beauty of collective creativity.

Beyond the music and the camaraderie, I also derived so much pleasure from the opportunity to dress up every weekend and be part of bringing joy to an audience. There was something special about stepping into character, donning costumes, and knowing that our collective efforts were creating memorable experiences for those who came to see the performances.

In reflection, this summer of theater has been more than just a series of performances; it has been a journey of personal growth and artistic fulfillment. I am grateful for the opportunity to step out of my comfort zone to embrace the discipline required, and to connect with an amazing group of individuals. It has reminded me that with dedication and an open heart, we can achieve incredible things, even in the face of uncertainty and self -doubt.

Here’s to many more seasons of music, growth, and community and the simple joy of dressing up and bringing smiles to an audience!