there's no business like show business

BFFs: emily, katie, maia, and syd

For days I've been waiting for the girls to crash or meltdown or both. The late nights, irregular mealtimes, the spotlights, the chaos, the constant party backstage, the make-up touch-ups, the braiding and rebraiding of the hair, the stress, the fun, the hilarity...but these girls are superstars. They have taken it all in stride. In fact, I'll just be honest, I'm the only one who has had any meltdowns around here lately. The post-play let-down is a bit brutal.

So as reality sets back in, I keep coming back to the question--is it all worth it?

I've been ambivalent about "Annie, Get Your Gun!" all along, for various reasons. Some of which I've already written about. But I didn't even know until last week that this version isn't the same as the one we saw this summer. When I saw the "revival" ending, in which Frank throws the match because Annie is throwing the match, I felt enormous relief. Great job, Rogers and Hammerstein, on fixing an adorable yet flawed storyline. Both the gender-tension and the race-insensitivity are toned down to a palatable level. Toss out "I'm An Indian Now," and "Annie's" songs are among the most catchy and comical of all the musicals out there. It is a darling, entertaining play.

there's no business like show business. i'm in the middle, second row.

"Moonshine Lullaby." my trio with new friends, Erin and Margaret

steve ashby with his dinner-run daughters

But still, is being in a play worth the time and effort? The neglect of other areas of life? The delusion that because something is all-encompassing it is actually important? Here are the "lessons learned" I've come up with to justify the last couple of months. I learned to smile, cooperate, dance (sort of), and harmonize while spinning. I have marveled at the talents of others and enjoyed seeing them get their time in the spotlight. Even though some, like Heidi, Heidi, Judy, Jill, Julianna, and Laura weren't under the literal lights. I just can't believe how amazing they are. Old friendships were strengthened and new friendships were made. Plus, it was fun!

waiting in the wings for their time on stage

I could do a whole blogpost on lessons learned from ballroom dancing. I had to deal with some of my issues--like following someone else's lead, spinning, wearing something too beautiful to hide in, falling backward hoping someone is there to do the catching, physical coordination, and overall exposing myself to scrutiny. All of those facets of fear turned into great learning experiences. Plus, again, it was fun! 

curtain call, with my brave and dashing dance partner, Steve

It may be a once in a decade experience, but it has been unforgettable and I wouldn't do anything different--except maybe feel less conflicted about it from the start.

Let's go on with the show!