Reflections on Theater: Musings from the Heart
A night of theater is a sensation that defies simple description. It's an experience so profound, so deeply felt, that it often becomes something we want to hold close to our hearts, cherishing its memory like a precious gem. Yet, as cherished as these moments are, they can also be elusive, difficult to come by in a world where the art of theater, particularly musical theater, demands nothing short of sheer brilliance. But oh, how I adore it! With every fiber of my being, I love it, knowing firsthand the transformative power it holds.
I find myself reflecting on the plethora of exceptional shows I've had the pleasure of witnessing in recent months.
As I recently posted, I was in London watching shows that touched me deeply and then came to NYC and have been lucky to see some great shows here too. This week I saw "Mary Jane"… Last Week "The Wiz"…. I have been talking about shows like "Moving Out," "Contact," "Dancing," what they have contributed… The celebration of storytelling with DANCE. I am also working on writing a show; I guess you are hearing it here first. I have been commissioned to write a new musical, and I will keep the rest really secret until we open it in a theater in a few years… Better to save the surprise.
That said, I have been thinking a lot about shows like "Peter and the Starcatcher" that I had the honor of investing in when it was on Broadway and then on tour… and my experience seeing magical moments like when we get close to the ending of "Finding Neverland" directed by Diane Paulus…..
That show, I remember. From the moment the curtain rose, my heart overflowed with emotion.
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It was as if my dreams, buoyant and unyielding as the day I first set foot in NYC, had been given wings. The choreography by Mia Michaels, with its playful yet respectful flair, danced its way into my soul. And the direction of Diane Paulus? Simply sublime. But it was the ensemble's unwavering commitment that truly stole the show. As the tale unfolded, I found myself pondering a line from the production: "Musical comedy? The lowest form of art there is!" Oh, how I reveled in that bold assertion! And yet, in that very contradiction lies the essence of musical theater—a glorious amalgamation of singing, dancing, and storytelling, elevated to the highest form of artistic expression.
From its inception as a child's idea to its impeccable production quality, it serves as a poignant reminder of what resonates with me, what moves me. Sometimes, it's the simplest of effects—a sprinkle of sparkles—that leave the most lasting impressions. "Finding Neverland" in NYC pays homage to the art of theater, moving audiences worldwide with its beauty and grace.
Indeed, when musical theater is done well, it becomes a transcendent experience, weaving together a variety of diverse art forms into something truly magical.
As I sit here, reminiscing on these unforgettable performances, I am reminded once again of the profound impact that theater can have on our lives. It's more than mere entertainment; it's a journey of the heart and soul—one that leaves an indelible mark long after the final curtain falls. And for that, I am forever grateful.
The Power of Theater
There's something truly magical about the art of storytelling—it has the power to reach deep into the hearts of its audience, touching them in ways both profound and lasting. The commitment of every actor, every ensemble member, creates a mesmerizing spectacle that captivates and enchants. It's magical to witness the seamless coordination, the perfect focus from one end of the stage to the other. Each department diligently executing its role under the guidance of a director whose vision is not only clear and effective but also delightfully playful. In the past few shows I've attended, I've found myself transported to a place where my mind and heart are perfectly aligned like in "Water for Elephants". It's as if these performances were tailor-made for the very essence of my being.
Why do we go to the theater?
It's a question worth pondering. We go to be touched, to be entertained, to be confronted with truths we may not have considered, and ultimately, to be inspired. And why do we, as actors and creators, dedicate ourselves to theater? It's because we yearn to play, to express the depths of our hearts, and to connect and share with others in the vast, communal space of our humanity. In the end, theater isn't just about the performances on stage—it's about the shared experience, the connection between artist and audience, and the profound impact it has on our hearts and minds.
"El arte No es ser pretencioso es hacer un acto de amor que trascienda de alma a alma" - Luis Salgado
What did I say?
"The art is not about being pretentious; it's about performing an act of love that transcends from soul to soul." - Luis Salgado
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