Trares
The music, the singing, the effects — it was magic.
Attending the Broadway in Indianapolis production of “Frozen,” Anthony couldn’t take his eyes off the stage. This was a kid raised on superhero movies, lifelike video games and constant digital entertainment, but a live theater production had him rapt.
He sat up in his seat, watching every twirl and hanging on every note. Each time I looked over at his face, his eyes were wide open and a smile was on his face.
When Broadway in Indianapolis announced that “Frozen” was coming to town, I knew that we had to go. It was an opportunity we couldn’t pass up. My wife loves musical theater, performing throughout high school in productions then remaining a fan of the artistry as an adult.
She had been to Broadway, seen traveling productions when they came to Indianapolis and bought the soundtracks to listen to at home.
My dedication is less fanatical, but I can certainly appreciate the talent, dedication and magic that goes into such complex productions.
Most importantly of all, we wanted to introduce Anthony to the art form with a story that we knew he’d get into.
So on the first night of the show, we drove to the Old National Centre in downtown Indianapolis, immersing ourselves in the pomp and festivities surrounding the performance. Anthony clutched his stuffed Olaf the snowman, which he insisted on bringing.
The show lived up to our anticipation. The special effects were incredible; when Elsa sings the ubiquitous “Let It Go” and changes into her sparkly ice gown in the flash of strobe light, Anthony audibly gasped (as did most of the theater.)
New songs filled in the story alongside classics from the movie, each accompanied with dazzling choreography.
When the show ended and the standing ovation ensued, Anthony was one of the first to rise to his feet.
We’re glad we brought him to see such a high-profile musical in his hometown; he fell wholeheartedly into the magic of the performance. But we also realize it didn’t have to be a Broadway performance to get the same fulfilling effect. An abundance of local theater opportunities exist right in Johnson County.
People can take in one-of-a-kind cabaret-style shows at On Stage Live! at the Luxe, such as their upcoming “Holiday Magic” show. Community groups such as Our Town Players put on quippy laugh-out-loud performances throughout the year. Youth-oriented groups such as Agape Theater Company and Creative Grounds Performing Arts offer some of the most beloved musicals on area stages. And of course, local high schools and Franklin College do major productions each semester.
Anthony has been given a taste of the joy of live theater. Now, our job is to keep feeding his interest by supporting the local arts.
Ryan Trares is a senior reporter and columnist for the Daily Journal. Send comments to [email protected].
