Theatrical Throwback

On By K.L. HaleIn Blog feed, memories

It’s as if I had stepped back in time.

The memories of traveling to the downtown area of the “big city” smacked my senses. There it was, the hauntingly captivating theater, standing in its elegant elevation (the same one in my post, Spooky Spin). “Cinderella” was on the marquee and princesses of all ages were scattered around the scene.

Landers Theater-Springfield, Missouri pic courtesy springfieldmo.org

Upon entering the stately structure a scent of sensational history wafted through my nostrils. The amazing architecture, the comforting carpet, the plush velvet squeaky seats, and the creaking of the floor welcomed us with open arms. My twin and I made eye contact thinking of the year we were in youth troupe (ensemble for “Johnny Moonbeam and his Silver Arrow). Oh, how we wanted to go backstage again! We were so happy to have our niece between us.

“Welcome ladies and gentlemen to today’s performance of Cinderella.” Many thanks were expressed to all who contributed to the program’s success. “Please turn all devices to silent or turn them off. The actors work very hard and it’s rude to disrupt them.” This elegant woman spoke in a direct and kind manner. Again, I smiled. I remember all the years of live performances-cell phones beeping and people walking out early. I didn’t expect that would happen here.

Photo by K.L. Hale

Two hours of live music and stellar performances by all-what delight! The stepmom/stepsisters stole the show! Of course, Cinderella and the ensemble were extraordinary. The standing ovations, bows, whistles, and applause were….so….needed. Pure entertainment at its finest.

Photo by K.L. Hale —yes, as a history buff I will always think of The Ford Theater when I see any balcony.

My day ended watching Lady Gaga sing with Tony Bennett on a TV special for his 95th birthday. They sang their hearts out (did I mention he’s 95?). She respectfully asked if she could have the honor of escorting him off the stage.

It’s as if I had stepped back in time.

I’m a bit old-fashioned if you didn’t know already. I’m also extremely eclectic when it comes to life-I love absorbing the arts, learning new things, and do appreciate modern conveniences, yet love my daily reruns of The Waltons, too. Very few things make me as happy as being in nature. But this was one.

Have faith 💚

Their collaboration began years ago~respect! Love their voices!

38 thoughts on “Theatrical Throwback”

  2. Oh I remember those times on stage Karla, the plays that our school would put on for Christmas was a part of expressing ourselves. Something that now still leaves me in terror, I was never good at public speaking I’m afraid. Still one of my things to face 😀 ❤️ 🙏🏽 🦋 😂 🤣

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  4. As youngsters we had an opportunity to see an opera at the world famous Chicago Opera House.
    Your article here brought back this ancient memory only remember how much I hated those
    shrill voices of the opera! The building and architecture was awesome however, much like what is seen here it just captivates all you see! How very lovely Karla. Thank you for sharing, Eddie

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    1. Eddie, thank you for sharing your memory! I would hope everyone can have opportunity, even just one, to experience a theater or performing arts hall of any kind. So many gifted individuals work hard to create joy for their audience~much like we hope our writing impacts an audience ~even if only one. Thank you for your support my friend.

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  5. What an incredibly beautiful place! I’m sure it put you in a place where you were ready to be transported… even before the show began. Thanks for sharing this wonderful memory with us.

    I also watched (and loved) Lady Gaga and Tony Bennet. It was highly entertaining, but also very sweet and touching. Beautiful.

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    1. Thank you, Russell! I appreciate your support and words! Transported is exactly the word I needed to hear~and I’m pretty sure that word was mentioned in the introduction. Like you, I felt the tribute to Tony’s last live performance, at 95 with Alzheimer’s, an incredible encouragement. It was so sweet indeed! Stay blessed and safe!

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  13. Jean McDonald

    A wonderful post as always! I read all your post & actually do comment thru reply on email. must go to your “secret” place LOL. Last week’s Sarah Hale what a wonderful an amazing woman as well as for the times such supportive parents & husband! Have thought a lot about Branson wondering how Kim, Randy & Shirley are as well as Pat & Betty. Are Gail & Mitch Karen & Rich still there? Hopefully will get to travel 2022 & Branson first road trip! Can hardly wait to see you & get to hug you. Miss you my friend. love lady gaga & tony bennett! 💖💝☕🍵

    On Mon, Nov 29, 2021 at 9:09 PM Flannel with Faith wrote:

    > K.L. Hale posted: ” It’s as if I had stepped back in time. The memories of > traveling to the downtown area of the “big city” smacked my senses. There > it was, the hauntingly captivating theater, standing in its elegant > elevation (the same one in my post, Spooky Spin). “C” >

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    1. Vicki, it’s so good to “see” you! I didn’t find you in my spam. You are out in the open! Yay! Lol! I appreciate your support so much.I always love reading the feedback.Today I went to the campground as Ms. Shirley wanted to buy another book. Kim came to the camper and it was lovely we had the short time together. Pat and Betty are wonderful! Yes. The 4 others are still there (I went to see Karen and visited with her as she also bought a book for her new grandgirl!). I’ll be praying we see you in 2022! The trails are waiting~and so are hugs! I’m so glad to know you are doing well.Please take care. I miss you too! 💛❤️🤗☕️

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  14. Pingback: Theatrical Throwback – Nelsapy

  15. Karla, I enjoy your inclusion of history with the note about the Ford Theater balcony. I can see the show starting up. Who can pass up a chance to experience live theater or listen to Tony Bennett one more time in the sunset of his amazing music.

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  16. How fun! Our own local theatre just completed a major exterior renovation and is in the process of an ongoing interior one as well. I can hardly wait to see it all completed! It is so wonderful when our local history is preserved.

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