Monday, March 26, 2012

Born Performer

A few months ago my family and I went to a dinner theater. We have been twice before but it has been a while. This time it was the King and I. Looking past the racist undertones, it was actually a pretty nice experience. The actors and production exceeded my expectations. We are actually returning next month to see The Wizard of Oz.

I bring all of this up to shift the focus back to me. Seeing all of these performers on a small stage brought me back to 5th grade. That year I starred in what many refer to as the greatest elementary school production of the last hundred years.

While this occurred over 20 years ago, I remember a lot of specific details very vividly. What I don't remember is how I came to be the star of the show. I don't think I had any dreams of being a star. I wouldn't have actively sought this out and yet here we are, discussing my glory. I can only assume that the dance and theater teacher witnessed my natural shine and knew that I was the only way this show could reach that next level. Want to turn amateur hour into broadway? We better lock in the star.

There were a lot of components in this show. It had dance scenes with neon geometric shapes and black lights (think Daft Punk video, except better). It had me having various dialogues with my costars. It somehow involved math. It played 3 times I think and it sold out everytime I am sure.

I recall having to cold open the show. That was always scary. Once I blacked out and the first lines were projected out of the cafeteria p.a. I just went on autopilot. I was involved in every scene and would have to run all over the place, jumping into dance scenes with my rhombuses. Another reason why I was a big deal: I had a headset microphone. Keep in mind, this was the 80s. That would be today's equivalent of me being simultaneously projected as a hologram and acting with myself on stage. Also, I was the only one that got to wear one. That might sound like bragging, but yeah, only Kevin.