At the dress rehearsal Kelly told us he was getting over a
cold, but not to worry because he was getting better. He did, however, ask for
blessings to come his way. He then told us why he does what he does and why
doing a great show was so important to him. He relayed a story of when he sat
in an audience and experienced a life-changing event. I don’t know about the
other performers, but I definitely understood what he felt. I’ve felt it too.
Last night at the concert Kelly stood before an auditorium full of
friends and family and apologized (something he did to the performers an hour
before…) but in the end he entertained like a pro. He did a fabulous job. I’ve
known Kelly for only a few months. I knew I liked him when he mentioned that he
mentored under a man who I greatly admire, Dr. Ed Thompson, the man for whom
the venue in which we sang last night is named.
Those of us who enjoy not only watching musical theater but
participating in it, the combination of music and dialogue and dancing creates
an experience like none other and Kelly brought that feeling to me as a member
of a choir, something I don’t know if I’ve ever felt before while singing in a choir.
I watched Kelly last night bring out the best in us and make
us better than we thought we could be. A good leader (which is what a conductor
is…) must first love and believe in what he or she is doing. Only then can they
transfer that passion to those who follow. And if those who follow are willing,
the results can be unbelievable. Kelly, you made us believe in you. We prayed
for you, we excelled with you, and we would follow you to the ends of the
earth. Thank you Music Man!
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