FREE Art?

OK, so I volunteer for somewhat selfish reasons. Art is involved. And the word FREE.

In 2008, I was fortunate enough to see some theater performances not only in Minneapolis, but in New York City as well. I went to New York City over Thanksgiving, and saw "South Pacific" at the Vivian Beaumont Theater. On Thanksgiving Day, we had a backstage tour of Radio City Music Hall, and then enjoyed the "Christmas Spectacular" with the famous Rockettes. For some reason, opportunities just kept arising to see various plays - I saw "Movin' Out" (Billy Joel), "Wicked" and "Phantom of the Opera" in Minneapolis, "The Miser" at the community college my daughter was attending, and "The Boyfriend" at a local community theater. I have never gone to that many performances in one year, but I realized how much I really enjoy it.

Then this recession hit more personally - income changed, planned purchases were postponed, and the budget got tighter. Fortunately, we are pretty practical most of the time, so it's not too difficult to pull in the reins a little more. But, "fun" things like theater and music and eating out had to be cut down to a minimum. (OK, mostly cut out all together.)

Then another opportunity hit - volunteering at a local community theater allows one to see the performances for FREE! (My favorite four-letter word.) A coworker and I signed up to work once during each event for 1 hour prior to a performance, and then enjoy the show. For FREE. I did not realize that the actors/musicians all perform at the community theater for FREE either. I never really thought about it, but obviously they are passionate about theater to put the time and effort into performing. FREE for me to attend, and the participants do it all for FREE as well. Art for FREE! Is that so selfish?

Tonight's performance - a capella music by artists from Minnesota. They have traveled around to state fairs and opened for the Beach Boys. I love a capella music.

I'll be enjoying for FREE volunteering for this tonight.

I think I will be singing all the way home after the show. (Fortunately, in a soundproof car all by myself.)