Creative Commitment

By Carol Roberts

As I write this post for tomorrow in the lobby of the Sixth Street Theater, dress rehearsal is happening on stage for "Arsenic and Old Lace".  As Paul, who is the director of this production, had the cast come onstage before the play began to check makeup, I couldn't help but smile.  This cast of 14 who have spent their time for the last six weeks, for most at least four nights a week, rehearsing, learning lines and developing characters, it has been a wonderful thing to be a part of this fall.

Being a part of a three act play is a big commitment, whether you have a major role, or, like me, coming in on the last few pages of the production.  Each character is important to tell the story.  Each cast member's contribution makes a difference.  And the length of this play is over two hours.

One thing I have appreciated about this cast is their desire to put on a good show.  These people have shown up when they were supposed to and, if they couldn't make it, they made sure the director knew they would be gone.

Another thing I have noticed is these people care about getting things right.  At the end of rehearsal tonight, they were asked if they wanted to come back the next night to do another rehearsal, or did they want a break before opening night.  Everyone said they would come back to run through the show again.  That is dedication.  That is commitment.

The next time you attend a play, stop and think of the dedication it took to prepare for the performance. Think of these cast members, many who also have full time jobs or other obligations that they have had to work around to carve out time to be a part of the show.

This is why I have been a part of theater for so many years.  It is a special thing to come together with a group of people on stage and help create a night of magic for the audience.

It is a pretty great feeling!!

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What was one of the latest creative endeavors you made a commitment to see it through to the end?

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