August 27, 2007
by: Luigi
Anonymous Guest Writer
Choosing a season is HARD. Theatre professionals love the variety and the challenge of different kinds of material but successful theatres are slaves to their audiences choices. So, if the audiences are unwilling to experience something unfamiliar once in a while, the establishment loses money and – well, it’s like losing your job – things change radically.
The fact is that all shows can’t be musicals or comedies. There are some really strong stories out there that, like life, don’t always end with a big song and dance production number or a “happily ever after”. But, even those things that are sometimes hard to watch have a lot to say to us. They make us recognize difficulties in our own lives. Maybe they help us realize that ours are not so bad. They may give us courage and resources to face adversity. In any case, they do reflect the human condition and the theatre can and should be a mirror to reflect the good, the bad and the tuneful.
What is Luigi preaching about now?? Take a chance!! Go to something unfamiliar. Allow the professionals who must choose a ‘season’ of shows some latitude. Let them challenge and entertain you.
Wasn’t the play reflecting Anne Frank’s experience a bit “heavy”. Was that acceptable only because it was ‘real’ history? What about the upcoming OF MICE AND MEN. Will that be okay simply because it is considered a classic? People flock to ROMEO AND JULIET. Not exactly an uplifting experience, teenage love ending in tragedy. So, when you see a show listed that you aren’t familiar with – or one you know is “heavy” – give it a try. Expand your horizons and challenge your mind. You may not leave walking on clouds but there is nothing wrong with leaving with something to think about.
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