getting to know you

Have I ever mentioned that I love plays? Well, I do--& Kansas City gives me plenty of opportunities to enjoy the stage in the summertime. Mom & I have made attending plays together a summer tradition since I entered college four years ago. We've seen a plethora of theatre favorites at a variety of community theaters.

We attended Seven Brides for Seven Brothers & half of The Wizard of Oz (the show was called at intermission due to tornado warnings . . . & we were in Kansas, true story) at Shawnee Mission's Theatre in the Park. We've fallen in love with Kansas City's Shakespeare's festival where we've seen Othello & The Merry Wives of Windsor come to life on stage. 

So, why do I go to plays with Mom? It's our date time--our way of getting to know each other a little better. We share jokes, personal stories about the play, & interesting tidbits that we've picked up over the years. Our outings have allowed me to share some of the knowledge I've gained in studying dramatic productions in college. While we laugh, talk, and sing along we get to know things about each other that makes our relationship closer than ever.

We started this summer's theatrical experience with The King & I at Starlight Theatre (with Lou Diamond Phillips as the King of Siam--you know, the La Bamba guy). I have always loved The King & I -- I watched the video all the time growing up. During the prelude of nearly every song I would turn to Mom & say, "I love this part! This is my favorite part . . . really!" How can you not love "I Whistle a Happy Tune" & "There is a Happy Land"? Or what about the "March of the Siamese Children"?  

What is my absolute favorite part? Well, there are two. The first takes place in Act I as "Mrs. Anna" teaches the children. Do you know what it is? (Hint: look at the post title.) It's the song, "Getting to Know You". I love the setting, the characters, the words & the tune. The second scene, & probably my true favorite, is the  play that Tuptim writes: "The Small House of Uncle Thomas".  Even though the retelling of Stowe's story is rather inaccurate & praises the name of Buddha, Mom & I connected as we laughed at the creative movements of the actors across the stage. 

I can't wait to see what other plays Mom & I will be going to this summer. But I know one thing for sure, whatever play we are watching, we could be singing "Getting to Know You".