Last night we all went to Sam's performance of Once on this Island, at Kingsbury Hall. This is a reprise of the same cast and play that was staged about a dozen times this summer at the Babcock Theatre--a significantly smaller venue. But the Kingsbury ambience, staging and sound system made it all feel very big-time.
And I don't know whether it was Kingsbury, the time off over the summer, or the added maturity of the mainly teen-age cast, but the play was really terrific--much better than in June. Sam had a solo which he belted out on-key and with confidence. And the rest of the cast had improved as well, with minor exceptions.
Here's the thing--being in a production of this quality takes a lot of time and effort. I estimate Sam had at least 40 rehearsals at the University of Utah, many of which he took the bus out and back. Like all good things, it required effort and sacrifice. Yet what a wonderful way to develop his skills, and exercise his passion and interest. He does the same with the piano, guitar, history and baseball.
More than any of my children before him, Sam is developing talents in areas that he has chosen and because of his personal interest. I have never been concerned with what talents my kids develop, only that they actively pursue something of value, and that they find joy in the process. I think it's one of the secrets to happiness.
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