On Stopping the World

Katherine: …A little hyperbole never hurt anyone.

Like lightning in a bottle (or a leap caught on camera) we captured a moment of magic. For that moment, we stopped the world.

Having time now to reflect on my part in Disney’s Newsies at La Crosse Community Theatre, I feel a profound sense of peace and gratitude. Maybe the heartache of no longer creating this wonderful story on stage each night hasn’t yet set in, but for now at least, I can say with great satisfaction, I seized each day.

To my friends, new and old, thank you. To Brody, Grant, Brianna, Avery, Grace, Brad, Liz, Allante, Colin, Dennis, Tom, Angie, Jeremiah, Aaron, Aaryn, Skyler, Olivia, Maddie, Brandon, Erick, Josh, Kane, Erik, Garrett, Riley, Naikya, Rubie, Alex, Angi, Brittany, James, Cole, Caidan and Lance, it was such an immense pleasure to share the stage with you for the past three weeks. I treasure the talents and dedication each of you brought to your part.

To the crew and the band, your work behind (and under) the scenes make a world of make-believe that much more real. To the production and support team, your direction and encouragement pushed us to be the best versions of ourselves both on and off stage. And lastly, but certainly not least, to the ushers and audience members who cheered, cried and and sang with us, without you this would all be for naught. Thank you, wholeheartedly, for supporting local arts.

The magic is always fleeting. But, the brevity breeds a beauty that lives on in our collective memories and the bonds created and strengthened by the process.

I continue to encourage you all to find such collaborative ventures in your lives. Whether through arts, recreation or service, find a way to unite with others outside of work and family. Explore interests, take a risk and break down barriers.

Stopping the world doesn’t have to alter the course of history. All it really takes is a moment to watch what happens when you do.