(The producers and cast of the Listen To Your Mother Show: Chicago, May 6, 2012, courtesy of Vanessa Druckman)
I always get butterflies when I see the Chicago skyline, but on this day it wasn't the buzz of the city I felt.
The paper shook so violently that I couldn't read the words so I talked with my husband about everything--anything but the show.
The show.
On May 6th, around 6:15 pm, my husband asked me to save him a seat in the theater. I placed my scarf strategically on an end-seat about 6 rows up. I knew that he would be able to see me, but that I wouldn't be able to see him. Because, you know, it's always easier to share your art with strangers (in a sold out theater!) than it is with those you know intimately.
On May 6th, around 7:00 pm, we read.
Then they laughed.
They cheered.
Some of them cried.
I cried.
Not because of stage fright. not even because of the stories that were shared--and they were tear-worthy. I cried because I felt so honored to have had the privilege of sharing this experience with 16 other amazing people.
And at the end of the show, we weren't just holding each others' hands, we were holding each others' hearts.
Through auditions and rehearsals we shared secrets, pains, tears, and laughs. Each time I listened to their stories another thread of their being joined my soul-fabric. I created not only new memories for myself, but also a new family with which to share them.
So thank you Melisa and Tracey; Audrey, Vanessa, Melissa, Jen, Katy, Karen, Stephanie, Brandie, Lou, Megan, Nancy, Judy, Stacey and Hyacynth.
Thank you.
(video is forthcoming!)
May 23, 2012 at 11:07 AM 