A half-capacity theater with ticket groups socially distanced from each other and masked isn't how you normally attend a theater performance, but the kids were so excited to get back on the stage. And they were so pleased that many family and friends were still willing to come see them. (Zoom in to see Aunt Sandi in her Moana mask that she made special for the event.) Both sets of grandparents, a couple great aunts, and some friends all joined us for their opening night debut.
Staley was Hei Hei, Moana's chicken friend while Adelie was Villager #4. Staley had a number of lines and a few short solos in songs. Adelie was supposed to have one line, which she was so prepared for, but as we missed the first tech rehearsal due to vacation, they accidentally gave her line to someone else. She rolled with it, but I was disappointed for her. Both girls were also Lyra hoop dancers for the song 'Shiny', where they got to do various moves and tricks while sitting on spinning hoops.
A big shout out to Papa who made them a hoop so they could practice at home.
The kids were so pleased that some friends they invited came to the show. Staley's friends Lilian and Josie enjoyed the show with us while Josie's brother, Stanley, who is in Adelie's class accepted her invitation to come too.
They were also supported on the second day of the show by Aunt Carrie, Uncle Erik, and Elliott...
our neighbors...
...and the girls' Kindergarten teacher and her daughter.
Each show gives the girls opportunities to meet new friends...
while continuing to build relationships with old friends.
NTA is such a family atmosphere, and I love how many of the older kids have taken my girls under their wings.
Because many individuals from various casts chose not to perform, Staley was thrilled to be asked to also play Hei Hei for both the Bloomington cast...
...and the Peoria cast.
Not only did it give her more opportunity to be on stage (which she could NEVER turn down), but it also gave her opportunities to meet even more new theater friends.
Although it was a different experience going to the theater in the time of COVID, it was so fun to see my girls on stage again doing something they love.
