I’m Princess Fiona’s Mom!
From the very beginning, our youngest child was full of music and songs. When she was little, she performed in our living room often. But truly, anyone’s living room was fair game in those days!
When she reached first grade, I found a youth theatre program for her and for the past eleven years since, she’s been participating in musicals. So many rehearsals. So many voice and dance and acting classes. So many hours driving her from place to place. So many wonderful shows. Numerous highlights but also lots of disappointments. Lots of work. Lots of grit and determination required.
She’s now a senior. This past weekend, her performing arts high school put on an outstanding production of Shrek the Musical. She had the honor of playing Princess Fiona.
I attended all 5 shows and every minute was pure joy. This show and this part were ideal for her because she’s hilarious!
Her school has four conservatories–theatre, music, dance, and visual art. Kids from each conservatory brought their talents to the show both on stage and behind the scenes. The orchestra was made up of students. Same for the make-up crew, stage management team, deck crew, etc.
Every aspect of the show–directing, costumes, sets, props, music, lighting–was excellent.
Across all these years, I’ve seen many, many good shows. But there was something magical about this one. Extra special. It felt like a gift to sit in the audience and be a part of something so wonderful. And it wasn’t just me (as a cast member’s mom) who felt that way. Word of mouth spread and the the final three shows sold out. Not a seat left!
More than anything, I was thrilled that the PTSA and the adult directors made it possible for the students to take part in a show of this caliber. I’ll always cherish the memories!
Whatever you’re doing today . . . whether you’re an author, a singer, an accountant, a teacher, a nurse, a lawyer, a volunteer . . . remember that developing your gifts, helping others develop their gifts, and sharing all those gifts makes the world a happier and sparklier place for all.
Have you seen Shrek the Musical? Which musical is your favorite?
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Wow, Becky, that looks fantastic. What a great experience for your daughter and all those involved!
Carrie, yes! It truly was.
What a joy to watch your kids walk in their gifts and talents! Can’t wait to see where she goes after high school! We have so many favorite musicals that it’s hard to pick just one!
“What a joy to watch your kids walk in their gifts and talents!” Exactly. I loved watching all the kids shine. 🙂
As Fiona’s grandmother it was worth every mile we flew to get there and see her perform!!! She was amazing!
She was fortunate to have her grandparents there to cheer her on!
Becky this was truly an inspirational post. It is quite an accomplishment for her to play the lead. Many years ago j was in the professional theatre as a child actor so I know the thrill of performing in front of a live audience. My children pursued music and enjoyed their time playing instruments. It is so rewarding and , I believe, a great educational tool. As she continues her education, I hope she will seek the Lords guidance and use her talents as a foundation for her future. Congrats Mom, for doing a great job supporting her.
Thank you for this sweet and encouraging comment, Jocelyn! I truly appreciate it.
Oh my goodness. Your youngest looks like you. Even with red hair and from a distance. I do love musicals. I’ve seen Beauty and the Beast twice on Broadway, along with Phantom of the Opera and Damn Yankees and Miss Saigon. Even more productions here in Boise. Wicked is my favorite, at the moment, but my love of musical theater goes way back (South Pacific, Camelot, Oklahoma, Carousel).
As she’s gotten older, she looks more and more like me. Even I can see the resemblance now. 🙂 I love musicals, too! Watching a story unfold on stage before your eyes is such a treat.
Congratulations on your daughter’s success and the whole company. I can feel your pride and joy.
Music has always been important in our family. My husband was in drum and bugle corps in high school. I taught our two children basic piano when they were young. They both were in junior high and high school band. My son played clarinet for marching band and contra bass clarinet for concert. He made all state band three years in a row on contra bass. My daughter played flute for marching and oboe for concert. She marched in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade in 1984. She lives in Eastvale, CA now. Her husband is a musician and has recording equipment in their home. My grandson, who is a senior this year, was selected in third grade to learn violin when they lived in Long Beach. After moving to Eastvale, he played saxophone in 6th grade then later played drums. He is taking his first theater class this year. I taught my granddaughter, who lives here in Virginia, piano. She was in school chorus and made All City for the years she participated. I know this is long, but I agree with encouraging and supporting talents. Thanks for sharing the wonderful pictures!
I loved learning about your musical family, Betty! Wow. It’s wonderful that playing instruments has continued through the generations.
Proud mama! So delightful. You helped by giving your daughter permission to shine.
Yes, it was such a proud mama moment. 🙂
How fun! My husband and I saw Shrek the Musical last year when a teenager from our church performed in it her senior year of high school. It was phenomenal! We went on and on about how amazing it was. I’m so glad we got to see it!
My favorite musical is Hamilton! Congrats to your daughter on what looks like an awesome performance🧡
What a fabulous post! Such fun. I had much the same experience with my daughter Kelsey years ago. She was a lead in Into The Woods and Nunsense, and it was pure JOY to watch her and the entire cast for each of those shows. You’ve brought back wonderful memories. 🙂 Praying for your daughter and whatever “next steps” God is bringing in her life. And for you, too, as you walk them with her.