I just had a fantastic holiday performance with my orchestra CMSO at St. Raph’s in Naperville.

And thanks to an incredibly supportive and selfless dear friend, my three boys were able to catch the “holiday pops” end of the show. They loved it. They were so thrilled to not only attend their first orchestra concert but watch their mommy up on stage. They recognized the pieces from The Nutcracker, The Polar Express score and tons of other holiday favorites. And they watched other children their ages perform too.
And then I thought…I’m a performer. I love being on stage. I love having family and friends in the audience. I love it. Love it!
And then I realized how long it had been since family or friends actually came to my shows…
So here’s the thought: if you’re a performer and your significant other expresses zero interest in watching you do your thing, just sit with that for a minute and ask why. Yes, invite him or her. Let them know their presence is welcomed and appreciated. But honestly, you shouldn’t have to. Do they need to be pageant mom front and center of every show? No. In fact, that’d be creepy. But it should be second nature for someone that truly cares for you to want to show you that by supporting your passions.

And if your significant other is a performer, support them. Show up. Being flowers. And then give him or her a big fat kiss.

Support the arts.

~OR