I had the rare pleasure of seeing a presentation of a show last night that had some real promise for a big future. 'Witness Uganda', with book, music and lyrics by Griffin Matthews and Matt Gould had its 50-minute presentation last night, and it was riveting. The music was glorious and the script was powerful and fresh. The panel raved about the amazing talents of its creators, and had some helpful comments about clarifying plot elements, but made sure that the writers knew they had something truly special on their hands.
Since this is my blog, perhaps you'll indulge me to make this next paragraph about me? I was jealous. The writers, with the buzz of their project, were swamped by the crowds; while Cindy and I were invisible. It was difficult to handle. As a kid, I was frequently last pick in sports, and it felt a bit like that. Writing musicals is typically something that I am one of the 'first picked' for. So, despite my joy at seeing a fantastic new work, I was in a decidedly self-pitying mood. Yeah, I admit it... I was being a 15-year-old.
This morning I'm in a much better place. Tonight we have our presentation, and guess what? We won't be 'Witness Uganda.' There will probably not be an overabundance of buzz. and it will likely not be standing room only. (Who decided to put our show against Figure Skating anyway? What were they thinking!) The panelists will likely not call us 'geniuses.' Nonetheless... Our audience will laugh, hum along, possibly cry, and be entertained. They will see a finely crafted work, with spectacular acting and singing, and an important message. Many people will see themselves on the stage, and feel that their story is at last being told. This is what our show has to offer. Our show is all about accepting yourself for who you are and embracing what is unique in you. So that's what we will do tonight! Here's to the little underdogs who will shine tonight (and to the underdog in us all.)