Adventures in Ushering
January 30th, 2006 
by Susan Harris
Now in my second season as a volunteer usher at a local theater, I have only good things to report. Naturally, it’s led to my seeing a bunch of plays for free. Yes, for no expense except a little gas, I’m seeing live theater - always a wow event for me. The highlight so far was last season’s "columbinus," about the Columbine High School shootings, a play I’d never have sought out willingly because I’m such a wus. My anxiety was only heightened by the preshow briefing, when we w
ere told not to say "Enjoy the show" to the patrons but instead, "Thank you for coming". Jeez, where do I hide? But it was riveting, I tell you, totally riveting, and the lead actors have been nominated for D.C.’s local acting award.
Other rewards of ushering were unexpected. Like feeling a part of the theater, if only in a tiny way. And like getting to know and having a bit of fun with the other regular ushers. Definitely a fun night out.
Last weekend I ushered for "Midwives," based on the best-selling and thought-provoking book about a home birth in Vermont that went wrong. Again, really talented people performed live in front of a couple of hundred people, probably for very little money. I sure hope our taste for entertainment doesn’t become so changed by TV and movies that we stop appreciating the immediacy and intimacy of live theater.
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February 16th, 2006 at 10:41 am
I second that “columbinus” rave - I see about 10-20 local plays annually and go to NY for Broadway trips a few times a year & IMHO that one was THE BEST live theater experiene I’ve ever had. The acting was superb and the writing stellar.
I too was reluctant to see it due to the subject matter - if you get the chance, don’t miss it.
And garden-related — isn’t it ironic that such a demure, lovely flower is now forever synonymous with such a horrible tragic event? I wonder how many folks out there do not even know what a Columbine is…
February 16th, 2006 at 3:51 pm
I love theater too! But I like being on stage more than the audience.
I’m in rehearsals now for Fiddler on the Roof (http://www.cincinnatilandmarkproductions.com/ccpa/season05-06.htm#fiddler)
February 16th, 2006 at 5:41 pm
OMIGOD, Kasmira, that’s so exciting. Who are you playing?
February 17th, 2006 at 8:56 am
I’m just in the “ensemble.” I was a bit dissapointed not to be cast in a larger part, but my husband says that ensemble looks like the most fun because we always seem to be having such a good time with our background “conversations” during the crowd scenes. I have to admit, it’s true! We have a great time trying to make each other laugh on stage.
February 20th, 2006 at 1:08 pm
I was a stage carpenter once upon a time and I enjoy the theatre !!