Spring Awakening

Last week my life was made complete. I finally saw Spring Awakening. And the best part was that I got to sit onstage! I can't really tell you anything specific about the show. Honestly it was all a blur of great singing, lights, and pure excitement. I was literally shaking in my seat, and after the first act I felt like my heart was going to burst out of my chest.

Rewind to last year when James and I saw Rent. During intermission I turned to him and said, "You know I would give anything to be down there on that stage. Even if I was just sweeping the floors." Fast forward to last Wednesday and there I was, onstage, at my favorite show. When Francine, our usher, told us that we were now a part of the scenery I couldn't help but smile because one of my dreams had finally come true. During the show I can't remember focusing on much. I did watch Matt Shingledecker a lot because he's from South Carolina and in my mind I was, "Woot, woot, woo-ing" for him. Same goes for the amazingly talented Claire Sparks. Steffi D also stood out in my mind. After the show I couldn't help telling her how much I loved her "fierce" foot stomp during the Mama Who Bore Me reprise.

The stage door was another experience entirely. In the past when I have gone to the stage door I felt very rushed. At the SA stage door I didn't feel that way at all. Everyone really took the time to sign things, and talk. The one memory that I know I will take away from the stage door is when I gave my Matt his South Carolina present. At first he thanked me, and then we said our good byes. But after he opened the gift and came back over to thank me again I felt like I was going to cry. He said it was the best gift he'd ever gotten, and it made me really happy that I had made him happy. He truly is one of the most gracious and amazing person I have ever met. He really took the time out to talk to me and the group I was with. Claire Sparks was also very gracious when I went over to talk to her and apologize for not bringing her a SC gift. She understood completely and then she and I had a talk about college and me becoming a librarian. High fives to Claire's parents for being librarians! :)

In all the whole experience was amazing, and worth the eight hour drive to DC. I cannot wait until the shows comes to Greenville so that I can go every night. Hopefully we'll also have a Guilty Ones team and I can help head that up. Until then I wish the entire cast of Spring Awakening amazing shows and safe travels!