by Zach Raffio. @zachraffio.
Ah, another year of powerful performances, eye-popping set pieces, and engrossing stories taking over stages of the world. We began to look back at the year in theatre, but it brought up too many memories too quickly and we started having a panic attack instead. Now we’re outside just getting some air, but we’ll finish the piece, I promise.
Broadway’s triumphant return this past summer provided a wave of optimism for our decimated community, highlighting that with perseverance and dedication to the craft we love, the curtain will rise again. But it also reminded us of the first half of the year, and then, oh god, almost all of 2020. Hold on, I’m good, I just gotta… no no I’m good.
Established and new works ignited stages with a mixed of revamped and completely new theatrical milieu. But, I mean… remember when they didn’t know if they'd come back at all? And I guess nobody still completely knows, right?! Oh fuck, oh shit. I know we’re all truly in this together, but my tunnel vision is telling me I am the only person on planet earth.
Congratulations to every single show that has held even one performance this year - it is truly a triumph. You overcame the odds, and brought joy to the WAIT REMEMBER THE NIGHT COMPANY CLOSED FOR DIARRHEA? Can you get diarrhea from sitting in the audience? Is that how it works? Don’t tell me I’m being ridiculous. I’d look it up on my phone but I don’t think I can handle the answer right now.
So, there you have it; an incredible year in the theatre. Despite any setbacks, the theatre community - from virtual readings to a packed Broadway house - showed that it will always find a way to return, fueled by the creativity and passion of the creators who allow it to exist, and the support of individuals who can’t wait for the next curtain to rise. I’m starting to feel better already.
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