After weeks of writing, rehearsing, blocking, and preparing, the ensemble finally took the stage for their first performance of their original works! The night was filled with anticipation. Ensemble members arrived early to prepare the stage, set up props, and get dressed before the show 

The ensemble closed the curtains as guests poured in. Many in the audience knew the cast members, so there was plenty of excitement and anticipation as everyone waited for the show to begin. Before the performance, we did the usual check-ins, the ring, and a quick warm-up.

Once the curtains opened, audience members cheered as performers entered, laughed along with the lighter moments, and sang along with the musical pieces. The audience celebrated and connected with the cast,  responding to and encouraging the performers along the way.

For many ensemble members, the performance was an emotional experience. One performer became emotional while sharing her piece and had to stop. But, after receiving encouragement from the audience, she was able to continue. Another actor after her performance said, 

“I’m just glad I got through it without crying.”

The audience’s support continued throughout the performance. One ensemble member shared that her bunkie was in the audience cheering loudly for her, she joked, 

“I told my bunkie not to embarrass me!”

The ensemble also worked through unexpected moments.  Some performers improvised, cues moved more slowly than planned, and one actor had to catch her breath and work the crowd before going into a song.  Through it all, the ensemble kept the performance moving and trusted one another.

By the end of the show, the audience was singing along and cheering for the performers. Many came up after the show to tell everyone how great of a job they had done. After a summer of hard work, the ensemble got to share pieces they were proud of with an incredible audience.