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How Musical Theatre Changed My Life

The first time I ever did a musical, I was 10. By that time, I had a lot to learn about the world. I’ve changed immensely since then; a lot has changed, but my love of theatre has stayed the same.

When I realised that I could perform in musicals at school, that’s all I did. The first production I did was in 6th grade and we did Tom Sawyer. The role wasn’t big but it was something I loved so much. I appeared in musicals all through middle school; it was a beautiful experience and I loved it, but then I got to high school.

In high school, my love for theatre increased by one hundred percent. At my school, the music wing is located in this hallway that you would have no reason to go down unless you’re involved in the department. That’s what makes it so special. My freshman year, we did Cinderella.

Freshmen year though it’s hard to get involved in things for fear of judgement or ridicule. This being said I auditioned anyway. I got in, went to the first rehearsal, and loved it. This rehearsal is also where I met two of my best friends, two of the best people I know. Throughout this production, we grew closer and closer and formed this fantastic bond that we still share today. I have a lot to thank theatre for but there is one special thing I’m most thankful for.

So fast forward to my sophomore year and the production we did was Urinetown. Yes, I know the title isn’t pleasing but the show is absolute genius. Putting this show together was one of the best experiences of my life. This production was fast moving and had so many visual aspects. I’d never been apart of a show like that before and it went by much too quickly. We attended a theatre awards ceremony for high school shows done that year and ours won best overall production. This was a gigantic achievement for everyone in the show and the entire music department. My love for theatre was solidified that day, not because we won but because we worked tirelessly and wholeheartedly to make it to that point.

The community aspect of theatre is overwhelmingly beautiful. The acceptance and unity of the people I do theatre with are one the reasons why I love it so much. Whenever I’m there I feel like I can just breathe and not worry about anything else. I know that when I’m in that hallway, I’m always going to be accepted and I never have to worry about what I’m going to say or do next. I can just be. I think everyone needs a place where they can just be and I’m happy to say that theatre is mine.

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