West Side Story

Program

We went to see West Side Story this week!

Oh, how I have missed musicals. For the first time in fifteen years we attended a musical, and what a perfect one to see. It's amazing how relevant West Side Story is 40 years later. I grew up listening to the vinyl record of West Side Story (and many other musicals)--singing and dancing around the house. 

Program

Growing up I was able to actively participate in the arts--whether it be through community theater, dance (modern, tap, ballet), playing musical instruments, or performing in thespians productions (always in the chorus...). I never excelled at any of these things, but I loved them deep in my being and I still miss them. A lot. 

I'm so thankful to my parents for instilling in me a love of the arts from such a young age--we always had music playing and attended performances and I was always encouraged to pursue my interests in dance, music and theater.

It's truly a gift that keeps on giving.

I couldn't believe how, after so many years of not listening to the music of West Side Story or seeing a performance of it, the words and melodies flooded my memory as I watched.

View of the Stage from Row ZZ!

To be honest, I haven't been feeling as well as I had been, so things have been a bit more difficult. I was a little nervous about how I was going to be able to handle such a long performance. But I did it! (I'm just crashed out now!). 

As I clapped and clapped and clapped some more at the end of what was a wonderful show, I remembered back to my first concert outing five years ago to see Wynton Marsalis. I remembered how my arms were so tired and weak that I couldn't keep clapping as long as the rest of the audience did. I remember how hard it was to get to the performance at all. 

I thought about how we had to park far away this time (thank goodness for The Rolls!), wait in line for the elevators, and generally leave more time and energy for arrival to and departure from the sold out performance. I couldn't have managed those extra 'spoons' in previous years.

Even though I feel worse now than I had over the summer, I'm still so overwhelmed by the new blessings that life is allowing me to experience. 

My Special Set-Up

In the past, I've discussed in detail my special set-up in the back row of the auditorium. It's a little easier to understand with a photo. So, here's my specially built platform, reclining chair, and a spot for Mom right next to me. Plus, there's the secret potty right nearby! 

As always, we were greeted, spoiled and taken such good care of by the Lisa and her staff. I think half of why I go to performances is to hug Lisa (and her daughter, Brianna). :) Knowing that we can arrive at a performance, and not use one single energy point thinking about whether I will have what we need makes me want to go more and more often.

This outing was a special victory, and I am celebrating while I recover in my PJs!

Blessings,

Emily